Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has predicted Sanju Samson to win the Orange Cap in IPL 2026 (via Crex Instagram handle). Chopra has backed Samson to continue his rich form in the upcoming edition of the tournament. The right-hander was awarded Player of the T20 World Cup 2026 after he scored 321 runs in five matches at an average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.38.

The Kerala batter produced scores of 97(50), 89(42), and 89(46) in the virtual quarterfinals, semifinal and final of the tournament, respectively. Samson was under immense pressure after he could only manage 46 runs in five matches against New Zealand just before the World Cup, but grabbed his opportunity with both hands at the business end of the competition. 

Samson will represent the Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026.

Meanwhile, Chopra backed Jasprit Bumrah to win the Purple Cap in the upcoming competition. Bumrah returned with impressive figures of 4-15 in his quota of four overs and was awarded Player of the Match after India registered a comprehensive 96-run win over the Kiwis in the T20 World Cup final.

The gun fast bowler took 14 wickets in the tournament at an average of 12.43 and a splendid economy rate of 6.21, which was the best for any bowler.

On the other hand, Chopra picked the Delhi Capitals to break their IPL title hoodoo and win their maiden crown in the upcoming season. The renowned commentator has backed Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings to make the playoffs. Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings are the only two teams in the tournament who haven’t yet won an IPL title.

IPL 2026 will kick off on March 28 with defending champions RCB taking on SRH at Bengaluru.