IPL 2026: Sanju Samson WILL LEAVE Rajasthan, CSK front runner to get him

In a major development ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Sanju Samson is set to part ways with Rajasthan Royals (RR), with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) emerging as the frontrunner to acquire the star wicketkeeper-batter. Reports emerging from the cricketing corridors suggest that Samson has expressed his desire to leave RR due to dissatisfaction with the franchise's management and is actively seeking a new challenge in the upcoming season.

Sanju to leave RR

OTTplay can confirm that CSK has rekindled trade talks with the Rajasthan Royals over the possible acquisition of Sanju Samson. The discussions reportedly involve a potential player swap, with one of CSK’s key players, possibly Ravindra Jadeja, being considered as part of the deal.

Sanju Samson’s bond with the Rajasthan Royals has been strong, having spent significant years with the franchise. However, the departure of Jos Buttler before the 2024 mega auction and subsequent management decisions appear to have strained his relationship with the franchise.

After completing an eventful eight-season second stint with RR, Samson conveyed to the management his wish to explore opportunities elsewhere.

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RR want Shivam Dube or Ravindra Jadeja

Chennai Super Kings, led by MS Dhoni, who is hands-on in IPL 2026 planning, have shown consistent interest in bringing Samson on board. A key internal CSK meeting involving Dhoni, CEO Kasi Viswanathan, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, and coach Stephen Fleming is scheduled around November 10-11.

This meeting is expected to finalize retentions and weigh the progress of the Samson trade. CSK has reportedly reached out to the potential players who might be involved in a swap to gauge their willingness for the move.

Delhi Capitals also showed a previous interest in Samson, given his early IPL days spent with the Delhi franchise, but trade talks with DC have cooled off, and CSK has now taken the lead. Rajasthan Royals’ valuation of Samson, reportedly around INR 18 crore, means that any trade will require a significant exchange either in cash or player assets, making the negotiations complex.

RR owner Manoj Badale is actively exploring several avenues to finalize the deal before the IPL auction deadline on November 15. The franchise is looking for substantial returns, and with CSK’s squad balance and retention strategies in play, this trade could become one of the most significant pre-auction moves of IPL 2026.