Sanju Samson’s possible departure from Rajasthan Royals (RR) has become one of the most talked-about stories ahead of the IPL mini-auction in December. Rajasthan held talks with Delhi Capitals over a trade, but discussions fell through after both parties failed to reach a consensus.
Sanju Samson has reportedly expressed his desire to end his association with Rajasthan Royals, which has sparked interest from all the franchises. Over the last few months several teams reached out and held discussions. However, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), which started talks some time ago, still remains in active talks.
Sanju Samson’s failed Delhi Capitals deal revives interest from Chennai Super Kings
According to the Times of India, Rajasthan Royals have approached Chennai about a possible swap, which would see Ravindra Jadeja return to the franchise after 16 years. However, with CSK showing little interest at that time, RR turned their attention towards Delhi Capitals for talks.
Rajasthan and Delhi discussed possible exchanges involving Sanju Samson and South African batsman Tristan Stubbs. The deal was reportedly close to completion. However, RR demanded an uncapped player, Sameer Rizvi. Delhi was not ready to separate from Rizvi.
Talks had progressed so far that many senior and foreign players in the Delhi camp were informed about the possible swap. Following the collapse of the Samson-Stubbs deal, RR revived their previous discussions with CSK, once again exploring the possibility of a trade for Ravindra Jadeja.
MS Dhoni expected to return in 2026, but Sanju Samson trade may limit his on-field role
Chennai Super Kings have reportedly resumed talks with Ravindra Jadeja amid trade discussions. One of the team’s senior administrators was tasked with discussing it directly with Jadeja and gaining clarity on his stance going forward.
This was not the first time that Rajasthan Royals and CSK had considered a possible swap for Sanju Samson, but unlike earlier occasions, both sides appeared to be more serious this time. Rajasthan’s unsuccessful attempts to finalize agreements with other franchises brought him back to CSK.
Meanwhile, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan expressed optimism about MS Dhoni’s return for the 2026 season. However, if the Samson trade happens, Dhoni’s role may be reduced, limiting his presence on the field next year.
“We are very hopeful that he (MS Dhoni) will play next season,” Kasi Vishwanathan told TimesofIndia.com.
Sanju Samson: The backbone of Rajasthan Royals for over a decade
Sanju Samson has been a key player for Rajasthan Royals for over a decade. He joined the franchise in 2013 and was retained ahead of the 2014 season. The wicketkeeper-batsman led the team with a record of 33 wins and 33 losses in 67 matches.
In 2024, Samson scored 531 runs at an average of 48.27 and strike rate of 153.47. The Jaipur-based franchise retained him for ₹18 crore ahead of the 2025 season. However, Rajasthan Royals struggled in IPL 2025 and finished ninth in the points table.
Samson struggled with injuries during the tournament and Riyan Parag took over the captaincy. He played only nine matches, scoring 285 runs at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39, including one half-century.
Overall, Samson has scored 4,704 runs in 177 matches at an average of 30.94 and a strike rate of 139.04 with 26 half-centuries and three centuries. He remains one of the most reliable batsmen in the tournament.
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