Sanju Samson looks to exit Rajasthan Royals; CSK ears prick up

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auctions around the corner, Rajasthan Royals (RR) have found themselves at a crossroads. Their long-time captain and star wicketkeeper-batsman, Sanju Samson, has reportedly expressed his desire to leave the franchise he’s been a part of since 2013. This development, although not entirely unexpected, has sent ripples across the IPL ecosystem, with teams like Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) keenly watching the situation.

Samson’s potential departure from Rajasthan could be one of the biggest player movements in IPL history, not only because of his stature and price tag but also due to the rare nature of marquee Indian players changing franchises at the peak of their careers.

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The Player and the Franchise: A Longstanding Relationship at a Crossroads

Sanju Samson has been the face of Rajasthan Royals for over a decade, captaining the side since 2021 and acting as a stabilizing figure through the franchise’s rebuilding phases. Known for his elegant stroke play and calm leadership, Samson has grown into one of Indian cricket’s most reliable white-ball players.

However, despite his individual brilliance, the team’s performance under his captaincy has been a mixed bag. While RR reached the finals in IPL 2022, their form has fluctuated, and internal reports suggest differences between Samson and the team management have grown over time.

Having signed a three-year retention deal ahead of the IPL 2024 mega auction, Samson is currently tied to the franchise until the end of the 2026 season. However, under IPL rules, even if a player desires to leave, the final call rests with the franchise, giving RR the upper hand unless they agree to trade or release him.

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CSK’s Interest: A Long-Standing Courtship Rekindled

According to sources close to the development, CSK have shown strong interest in signing Sanju Samson. The five-time IPL champions have been eyeing a long-term replacement for MS Dhoni, and while Ruturaj Gaikwad has been groomed as a potential leader, Samson’s profile ticks many boxes.

The wicketkeeper-batsman met with CSK management and head coach Stephen Fleming during the Major League Cricket (MLC) season in the United States, further fueling speculations of a move. The franchise has shown interest in acquiring Samson through an all-cash trade – a method they’ve employed in the past, most notably while bringing in Robin Uthappa from Rajasthan in 2021.

CSK’s strategy of avoiding player-for-player trades is well-documented, and this time appears no different. However, Rajasthan Royals are reportedly insisting on a player-exchange deal, which is currently the sticking point. Sources suggest that RR have asked for two players in return, but CSK has not agreed to part ways with any key squad members yet.

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KKR and Other Franchises in the Mix

While the spotlight has largely been on CSK, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are also closely monitoring the situation. KKR lack a top-tier Indian wicketkeeper and could see Samson as the perfect solution to both their captaincy and middle-order problems. The franchise has a reputation for aggressive trading and could explore a package deal to bring Samson onboard.

However, it appears Samson’s preferred destination remains Chennai, given the franchise’s culture, leadership, and vision – elements that reportedly appeal to the 30-year-old, especially as he eyes the next phase of his IPL and international career.

Other teams have also expressed preliminary interest, but Samson’s Rs 18 crore price tag makes negotiations complex. Only a handful of franchises have the financial room and player flexibility to make such a move viable without major squad disruptions.

Rajasthan’s Dilemma: To Trade, Retain, or Release?

Rajasthan Royals now face a tough decision. They can:

1. Retain Samson, honor the existing contract, and try to resolve internal issues.

2. Trade him to CSK for cash or players, depending on negotiations.

3. Release him into the auction pool, risking his departure to a competitor and getting nothing in return.

While holding onto Samson could ensure continuity, there’s a risk of a fractured dressing room if the relationship has soured beyond repair. On the other hand, releasing a marquee player like Samson without compensation would be a significant loss, both tactically and commercially.

From a strategic standpoint, RR could benefit by reallocating Samson’s hefty salary to strengthen multiple areas. With Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi already forming a solid opening pair and Dhruv Jurel emerging as a quality wicketkeeping option, the franchise might look to reshape its balance by investing in middle-order and all-round talent.

Yet, Samson is not just another player for Rajasthan – he’s a long-time ambassador, leader, and crowd favorite. Letting him go could also have implications for fan loyalty and brand identity.

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The Trade Impasse: What’s Holding It Up?

While the broad interest and intent are evident, the deal remains stuck due to valuation mismatches and negotiation approaches.

• CSK want an all-cash trade, preserving their player core.

• RR are demanding player replacements to avoid a void in leadership and quality.

• Samson prefers a switch to CSK, and may not be keen on a move to other franchises.

• The price tag (Rs 18 crore) further complicates trade feasibility for most teams.

Unless one party yields, the standoff could continue – which opens the door to the most unpredictable outcome: Samson entering the auction pool.

What If Samson Enters the Auction?

If negotiations fall through and RR agree to release Samson, he would be among the most sought-after players in the IPL 2026 mega auction. At 30, with captaincy experience, international pedigree, and wicketkeeping skills, he could attract record-breaking bids – possibly surpassing his current Rs 18 crore valuation.

Franchises with purse power like Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, or Lucknow Super Giants could join the race, potentially inflating the price and changing the dynamics further. However, Samson’s willingness to play for franchises other than CSK remains unclear, which could deter aggressive bidding unless clear communication is established before the auction.

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Conclusion: A High-Stakes Saga in the Making

Sanju Samson’s potential departure from Rajasthan Royals is more than just a transfer story – it’s a defining moment in IPL history. It underscores the increasing complexity of player contracts, loyalty dynamics, and franchise strategies in a league that continues to grow in stature and financial power.

For fans, it’s a mix of nostalgia and excitement. Will the player who defined a franchise now define another? Will CSK find their Dhoni successor in Samson? Or will this saga end with Rajasthan holding firm?

As the waiting game continues, one thing is certain – Sanju Samson’s next move could reshape IPL 2026 in a way few transfers ever have.

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