Story so far of Sanju Samson–RR Trade Rumours: Will the Royals Captain enter IPL 2026 auction or join another franchise?

In a significant update, it has been reported that Sanju Samson has formally requested a release from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Reliable sources confirmed the development, which adds weight to ongoing speculation since the conclusion of IPL 2025. Samson has been a pillar of the RR setup for over 12 years, earning praise both for his performances as a batter and his leadership on the field. Under his captaincy, the Royals have been one of the most consistent and competitive teams in the tournament.

Despite his long-standing contribution, Samson endured a challenging 2025 season. He was plagued by injuries that forced him to miss several games during the campaign. Nevertheless, he managed to score 285 runs in nine innings, maintaining an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39, including a well-crafted half-century. Though the numbers are respectable, they were below expectations for a player of his caliber and may have influenced his decision.

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Following this development, several prominent cricket-focused accounts on X (formerly Twitter) have begun circulating updates regarding a potential trade. The two leading franchises reportedly in contention for his services are Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Both teams are in search of a seasoned Indian wicketkeeper-batter and potential leader, making Samson an ideal candidate. Whether he enters the auction pool or is traded remains to be seen, but the move could significantly reshape the dynamics of IPL 2026.

A timeline on Sanju Samson, according to reports

• 7 June 2025: Sanju Samson’s Instagram post goes viral, with a caption, “Time to Move”.
• Mid-June 2025: Sanju Samson’s manager likes an Instagram post, reading, “Sanju Released… CSK ready”.
• July 2025: Rumours spread that the Chennai Super Kings are interested in him via a trade deal with RR. Several popular accounts confirm the update.
• Early August 2025: Kolkata Knight Riders are willing to get him in the trade window.
• 6 August 2025: Mumbai Mirror reports Samson to stay with RR.
• 7 August 2025: Samson asks the Rajasthan Royals to release him.

Which franchises are eyeing a move for Sanju Samson?

An experienced Indian wicketkeeper-batter like Sanju Samson is a valuable asset for any IPL franchise, and if Rajasthan Royals decide to release or trade him, several teams are expected to show strong interest. Among the leading contenders are Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), both of whom are reportedly on the lookout for a reliable Indian wicketkeeper who can also play a leadership role. Rather than risking a bidding war in the IPL 2026 auction, these franchises are likely aiming to secure Samson’s services through a direct trade deal.

Chennai Super Kings can target Sanju Samson?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) currently rely on MS Dhoni as their wicketkeeper, but the legendary cricketer showed signs of decline during IPL 2025, both with the bat and behind the stumps. His performances were below his usual high standards, sparking the need for a long-term replacement. Sanju Samson, with his proven credentials and a strong rapport with Dhoni, could be an ideal successor. Although CSK have Urvil Patel in their ranks, they have a history of preferring experienced players, making Samson a suitable candidate for the wicketkeeper-batter role in the seasons ahead.

If Samson joins CSK, he could either open the innings alongside Ayush Mhatre or bat at No.3, a role Urvil Patel briefly excelled in during the latter half of the 2025 season. His inclusion would not only strengthen CSK’s top order but also bring leadership depth to the squad. With Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy viewed as average so far, Samson could emerge as a reliable alternative. Given CSK’s need for experience, batting stability, and future leadership, Samson fits well into their long-term plans.

Kolkata Knight Riders to acquire services of Sanju Samson?

One of Kolkata Knight Riders’ biggest weaknesses in IPL 2025 was the absence of a dependable Indian wicketkeeper-batter. While they had Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, both struggled for consistency and didn’t deliver the impact expected. This created a void that affected team balance and consumed valuable overseas slots. Acquiring Sanju Samson could be a game-changing move for KKR. Not only is he a reliable wicketkeeper, but he can also open the innings and even take up the leadership mantle if needed, offering the franchise a long-term, all-in-one solution.

With Samson in the squad, KKR could finally address multiple concerns at once, he could partner Sunil Narine at the top, provide stability with the gloves, and be groomed as a future captain. Letting go of their underperforming overseas wicketkeepers would free up an import slot for greater flexibility in team selection. While the trade isn't confirmed yet, several reputable sources have reported ongoing discussions. If the deal goes through, Samson could become the new face of the franchise, driving KKR forward in the coming seasons.