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Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja will face their former franchise as Chennai Super Kings meet Rajasthan Royals in an Indian Premier League clash here on Monday, adding an emotional sub-plot to a contest between two teams seeking a reset.

Samson, long associated with Rajasthan Royals as their captain and leading run-scorer, turns out in Chennai colours following a high-profile swap that saw Jadeja move in the opposite direction. The Kerala wicketkeeper-batter had led RR for over a decade, guiding them to the 2022 final.

Now part of a new-look CSK unit, Samson arrives in strong form after a successful international season, including key performances in India’s T20 World Cup triumph. He is expected to open alongside skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, forming the core leadership group in the absence of MS Dhoni, who is sidelined for at least two weeks due to a calf strain.

Dhoni’s absence has also opened opportunities for emerging players, including young all-rounder Prashant Veer and uncapped recruit Kartik Sharma, signed for Rs 14.2 crore. With Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube strengthening the middle order and Ayush Mhatre developing steadily, CSK appear to be building a transitional squad.

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Their bowling attack, featuring Noor Ahmad, Akeal Hosein, Matt Henry and Khaleel Ahmed, offers variety, though consistency will be key.

For Rajasthan Royals, Samson’s departure marks a shift in leadership, with Riyan Parag taking over as captain at his home ground. The return of Jadeja provides experience and balance, though questions remain over his finishing role.

RR’s batting will rely heavily on Yashasvi Jaiswal, supported by Shimron Hetmyer and emerging talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. However, their bowling unit, led by Jofra Archer, continues to face scrutiny after an inconsistent previous season.

Both teams are looking to recover from disappointing campaigns last year, with CSK finishing at the bottom of the table and RR just above them.

The match, therefore, carries significance beyond points, as both sides seek to rebuild while key players confront familiar opposition.