Cricketer Hanuma Vihari suggested that Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) trade for Sanju Samson was influenced by his 'face value' and significant fan support in South India, rather than solely his playing abilities. Vihari noted that IPL teams consider a player's commercial value and fanbase, pointing out Samson's popularity in the region. Samson was acquired from Rajasthan Royals in a major trade, with CSK trading Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.