Ravichandran Ashwin Doubts Sanju Samson's Trade to Chennai Super Kings

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced doubts about the potential trade of Sanju Samson from the Rajasthan Royals to the Chennai Super Kings. Amidst ongoing rumors of Samson's departure, Ashwin highlights the complexities involved in such a deal, particularly regarding budget management and player value. With Samson's leadership history and the Royals' recent performance, the future remains uncertain. This article delves into the implications of a possible trade and the dynamics between the franchises as they prepare for the upcoming IPL season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 14, 2025, 20:05 IST

Ashwin's Take on Samson's Future

Ravichandran Ashwin, a former off-spinner for India, has expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of the Rajasthan Royals trading their captain, Sanju Samson, to the Chennai Super Kings ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Speculations Surrounding Samson

Recently, rumors have circulated about Samson's potential exit from the Rajasthan Royals, either through a trade or by being released into the auction pool for IPL 2026. Reports indicate that tensions have arisen between Samson and the franchise, particularly concerning the decision to let go of Jos Buttler, who played for the team from 2018 to 2024.

Trade Talks Between Royals and CSK

It has been reported that the Rajasthan Royals proposed a trade involving Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Shivam Dube as part of a deal for Sanju Samson. However, the Chennai Super Kings have reportedly declined this offer.

Uncertainty Over Samson's Future

There remains significant uncertainty regarding Sanju Samson's future with the Rajasthan Royals and the possibility of a trade with the Chennai Super Kings, who have previously shown interest in acquiring a wicketkeeper-batter.

Ashwin's Analysis of the Trade

Ashwin believes that a trade between the two franchises is unlikely, as any team acquiring Samson would need to manage their budget effectively, complicating any potential player exchanges. He stated, "If Sanju is traded to CSK, and RR then tries to trade with other teams, they’re unlikely to get valuable players in return," during his YouTube show, 'Kutti Stories.'

Samson's IPL Journey

Throughout his IPL career, Sanju Samson has only played for two teams: the Rajasthan Royals and the Delhi Daredevils (now known as Delhi Capitals). He was part of the Delhi franchise during the Royals' two-year suspension from the league due to match-fixing allegations.

Samson's Leadership Role

Upon the Rajasthan Royals' return to the IPL in 2018, they retained Samson, acquiring him for 8 crore at the auction. He was appointed captain in 2021 and led the team for four seasons until 2025. Under his captaincy, the Royals reached the finals in 2022 for the first time since 2008, ultimately losing to the Gujarat Titans.

Ashwin's Conclusion on the Trade

Ashwin further elaborated that the Rajasthan Royals would not benefit from trading Samson for players like Jadeja, Ruturaj, or Dube, as CSK is unlikely to part with these key players. He concluded, "CSK generally don’t believe in trading. They aren’t going to trade players like Ravindra Jadeja or Shivam Dube. So, in all likelihood, Sanju coming to CSK is bleak."

Future Prospects for CSK

The Chennai Super Kings are expected to retain Jadeja, Gaikwad, and Dube as they prepare for the next IPL season, aiming for their record-breaking sixth title. A direct swap deal involving Sanju Samson appears improbable unless extensive negotiations occur or his name arises during the auction.