Sanju Samson's Future with Rajasthan Royals in Jeopardy Amid Trade Talks

Uncertainty Surrounds Sanju Samson's Position

The future of Sanju Samson at Rajasthan Royals is currently uncertain, as the franchise is reportedly exploring potential trade options with Chennai Super Kings ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL).

Recent reports indicate that Samson has officially communicated his desire to leave the Royals, either through a trade or by entering the auction pool before the mini-auction, expected in January or February next year. According to sources, growing tensions between Samson and the Royals have led to this decision.

Rajasthan Royals' Stance on Trade

Despite the rumors of Samson's departure, the Rajasthan Royals have stated that they are not interested in trading him, emphasizing that he remains the team's 'undisputed captain.' Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings have shown interest in acquiring Samson if a trade becomes feasible.

Potential Swap Deal with CSK

Reports suggest that Rajasthan Royals have approached several franchises, including Chennai Super Kings, regarding a potential swap deal for Sanju Samson, who could be seen as a successor to MS Dhoni, whose IPL future is still unclear. RR co-owner Manoj Badale has reportedly requested either Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad from CSK in exchange for Samson.

Jadeja began his IPL journey with Rajasthan Royals, playing for them in 2008 and 2009 before moving to other teams. However, CSK is reportedly reluctant to part with these key players.

CSK's Response to Trade Proposals

As per reports, CSK has declined Rajasthan Royals' requests for Jadeja, Ruturaj, and Shivam Dube in exchange for Samson. Dube, who previously played for Rajasthan, is also not on the trading block for CSK. Thus, a direct swap involving Samson seems unlikely unless further negotiations occur or he enters the auction.

Samson's Discontent with RR's Decisions

The reasons behind Sanju Samson's desire to leave Rajasthan Royals remain unclear, especially considering his significant contributions over the past decade, including leading the team for five consecutive seasons from 2021 to 2025.

Recent reports indicate that disagreements arose after the Royals decided to release Jos Buttler ahead of IPL 2025. During the retention phase, the franchise surprisingly let go of Buttler while retaining other key players, which may have contributed to Samson's discontent.

Jos Buttler's Impact on the Team

Having utilized their quota of six retentions, Rajasthan Royals could not use the Right to Match option to reacquire Buttler, who was signed by Gujarat Titans for ₹15.75 crore during the mega auction last November. Buttler had been a vital part of the RR lineup from 2018 to 2024, amassing 3055 runs, including seven centuries and 18 fifties, at an average of 41.84 across 83 matches.