Rajasthan Royals’ star player and captain since 2021, Sanja SamsonHas formally requested a release or trade for the Indian Premier League (IPL) season 2026. The cricket player that was retained for INR 18 Crore prior to the IPL 2025 Mega Auction is a chief member for RR, both as a player and leader.
With more than 4,000 points and 149 performances, he is the most covered and highest run-scoring player of the franchise. After a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign in which the Royals finished ninth and Samson missed different competitions due to a hand injury, these factors reportedly took a toll.
According to a Cricbuzz report, serious differences have occurred between Samson and RR management. His family and closest employees confirmed that the Kerala seizure no longer wants to continue with the franchise. The gap is said to have increased because of its relegation to the number three position last season, a decision caused by the performance of the young opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi next to Yashasvi Jaiswal. Samson, who has ambitions to be a regular member in the T20i team in India as an opener, is considered unhappy with the change in Batting order.
Royals reach several franchises for trade options
Moreover, the speculation of a difference with head coach Rahul Dravid also took the headlines, especially after Samson was removed during a match against Delhi Capitals in April 2025. Although Dravid publicly declined the rumors, she stated that they were unfounded and called a very good understanding with Samson.
In the meantime, the Royals have reportedly contacted several franchises to explore trade options. While Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has shown interest in acquiring Samson, they are confronted with financial limitations. Any change would require that CSK propagates large players or release multiple benchwarmers to create space for the INR 18 crore acquisition. However, Samson is under contract with RR until the end of IPL 2027, which means that every trade or release must be approved by the franchise.
Receive all cricket updates! Follow us:
#Sanju #Samson #asks #Rajasthan #Royals #release #IPL