Sanju Samson’s possible exit from Rajasthan Royals (RR) has become one of the most talked about stories ahead of the IPL mini-auction, which will take place in December. Rajasthan held talks with Delhi Capitals over a transaction but the discussions fell through after both sides failed to reach an agreement.
Sanju Samson has reportedly expressed his desire to end his association with Rajasthan Royals, drawing interest from all franchises. Various teams have been in contact and had discussions in recent months. However, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who started negotiations some time ago, are still actively in talks.
Sanju Samson’s failed Delhi Capitals deal has reignited the interest of Chennai Super Kings
According to The Times of India, the Rajasthan Royals had approached Chennai for a possible trade that would bring Ravindra Jadeja back into the franchise after 16 years. However, with CSK showing little interest at the time, RR turned their attention to the Delhi capitals for negotiations.
Rajasthan and Delhi discussed a possible swap 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 willing to part with Rizvi.
Negotiations had progressed to such an extent that several senior and foreign players in the Delhi camp were informed of the possible swap. Following the collapse of the Samson-Stubbs deal, RR revived their previous talks with CSK, re-exploring the possibility of a transaction involving Ravindra Jadeja.
MS Dhoni expected to return in 2026, but Sanju Samson Trade could limit his role on the field
Chennai Super Kings have reportedly reopened talks with Ravindra Jadeja amid trade talks. One of the team’s senior managers was tasked to hold direct discussions with Jadeja and gain clarity on his position going forward.
This wasn’t the first time that Rajasthan Royals and CSK had explored a possible swap involving Sanju Samson, but unlike previous occasions, both sides seemed more serious this time. Rajasthan’s failed attempts to finalize a deal with other franchises led them back to CSK.
Meanwhile, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan expressed optimism over MS Dhoni’s return for the 2026 season. However, if the Samson transaction goes through, Dhoni’s role could be reduced, limiting his on-field appearances next year.
“We are very hopeful that he (MS Dhoni) will play next season,” Kasi Viswanathan had told TimesofIndia.com.
Sanju Samson: The backbone of Rajasthan Royals for over a decade
Sanju Samson has been a key player for the 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 side in 67 matches with a record of 33 wins and 33 losses.
In 2024, Samson amassed 531 runs at an average of 48.27 and a strike rate of 153.47. The Jaipur-based franchise retained him for ₹18 crore ahead of the 2025 season. However, the 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 just nine matches and scored 285 runs at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39, including a half-century.
In total, 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 hitters in the tournament.
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