Twist in Sanju Samson and Rajasthan Royals' relationship; Know all about it

Without any doubt, Sanju Samson is the face of Rajasthan Royals (RR) in recent years, who holds the record for most caps for the franchise. But since the end of the IPL 2025, there was a rumour about Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) interest in Samson for the future wicketkeeping role, as he can replace the legend MS Dhoni. Now, there is a big twist in the relationship between Samson and Rajasthan Royals. 

Sanju Samson unhappy with Rajasthan Royals

According to a recent Cricbuzz report, Samson already formally asked his IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals to trade or release him into the auction; and his family and close cricketers also reportedly agreed with the news. Meanwhile, Cricbuzz also feels that it won't be easy for a franchise to release the marquee player, while his contract will run till IPL 2027. 

The Cricbuzz report suggests that Rajasthan Royals' wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, who also holds the record for most captaincy for the franchise, isn't happy with the franchise due to the lack of decision-making freedom in the late stages of the last IPL season. In their last two games of the IPL 2025, the RR skipper had to leave his favourite opening place after Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi proved themselves as strong opening partners. 

See Also: ‘Mahi bhai bas haath uthaye’- Former Indian player reflects on rare moment MS Dhoni lost his temper in IPL 2019 match against Rajasthan Royals

Sanju Samson is legend for Rajasthan Royals

Sanju Samson has been serving for Rajasthan Royals since his IPL debut in 2013. Apart from two seasons when Royals were suspended (2016 and 2017), the wicketkeeper-batter has served for the franchise every season. In 155 matches for the franchise, Samson has scored 4219 runs, the leading run-scorer of the franchise. His batting record for the franchise has a 31.96 average and a 140.53 strike rate, along with two centuries and 26 half-centuries.

Samson has also recorded 67 T20 matches as captain for the franchise, starting from 2021. Under his leadership, RR won 33 games, lost 32 matches, and tied and no result one each. He is already a legend for his franchise.

Few franchises interested in Sanju Samson

Amid a deteriorated relationship saga, a few franchises have reportedly shown interest in Samson, but the Rajasthan Royals management isn't reportedly happy with the trade offers. As Samson has the contract value of INR 18 crore every year, it will not be easy for the franchises.

Meanwhile, in the case of RR releasing Samson, CSK are reportedly interested in trying their luck in the auction, as there is hardly trade opprtunity for them at present.