Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are planning a major shakeup ahead of IPL 2026, with talks gaining momentum about the possible trade of Sanju Samson to Rajasthan Royals (RR). The move has created a huge stir among fans and experts, and former CSK and RR all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his views on what this trade could mean for both the teams.
Ashwin, who retired from the IPL after his last stint with CSK earlier this year, believes that the arrival of Sanju Samson can solve many problems for Chennai. The former Indian all-rounder said Sanju Samson is a complete package – a consistent batsman, an experienced leader and someone who brings stability to the top order.
Ravichandran Ashwin says Sanju Samson could be the future captain of CSK if mega trade happens
However, Ashwin feels that even if the trade happens, CSK will not immediately hand over the captaincy to Sanju Samson. He believes that the franchise would like Sanju Samson to settle into their system before considering him for leadership duties in the future.
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For now, Ruturaj Gaikwad remains the captain, but with MS Dhoni having to return to the role temporarily during IPL 2025 when the Maharashtra batsman got injured, questions are rising about CSK’s long-term leadership. Ashwin feels that Samson can be an ideal future captain once he adjusts to the Chennai environment and gains the trust of the team.
Ravichandran Ashwin said in ‘Aish Ki Baat’, “I don’t think Sanju will get the captaincy at CSK because it will be his first year and I am not sure that they will give him the captaincy immediately. But if the trade happens then he will definitely be an option to lead in the future.”
If Sanju Samson joins CSK, the team’s batting combination may see a complete change. Ashwin told that Samson can open with young batsman Ayush Badoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad can come at number three, where he prefers to bat. This could give CSK a stronger top order and better balance overall.
Ravindran Ashwin calls Ravindra Jadeja’s possible exit from CSK a big decision with emotional impact.
However, the big talking point is the possible exit of Ravindra Jadeja as part of this trade. Ashwin called it a big decision of CSK, because Jadeja has a long association with the franchise.
He emphasized that Jadeja has been one of CSK’s biggest match-winners, so losing a world-class spinner, an electric fielder and a dependable finisher will not be easy for the team and the fans.
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The former Indian all-rounder said, “One thing that will be on the minds of the fans will be Jadeja’s affinity for CSK. Jadeja is not a small player for CSK. There are certain sentiments attached with Jadeja and CSK. And trading is not something he has done in the past.”
“The disadvantage will be where will they get the second spinner from? Who will be the spinner they trust to bowl the middle overs? Who is that gun marquee fielder for them? Finishing is the issue,” Ashwin said.
Ravichandran Ashwin says Ravindra Jadeja’s move to RR can add a new chapter to his career
The iconic off-spinner also mentioned that if Jadeja moves to Rajasthan Royals, it could be a fresh opportunity for him to take on a new challenge and guide a young, energetic team full of emerging players.
“This could be a good opportunity for Jadeja as well. RR is a team built on a lot of youth and a lot of connections. It is a big decision for CSK to drop Jadeja,” Ashwin said.