Rumors have been swirling about a potential trade that would send Sanju Samson from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. These speculations gained traction after a cryptic tweet from cricket analyst Prasanna Agoram, who is closely linked to Ravichandran Ashwin, hinting at trade talks involving an Indian off-spinner and a left-handed middle-order batter for a top-order wicketkeeper-batsman. Further fueling the rumors, Sanju Samson's agent reportedly liked a tweet suggesting the swap.
Several reports suggest that CSK has approached RR with a proposition that would see Sanju Samson move to Chennai in exchange for Ravichandran Ashwin and Shivam Dube. A CSK official has also confirmed that they are definitely looking at Sanju. The official stated that Sanju is an Indian batter, who is a keeper and an opener and CSK will certainly have a look at the option of having him in their fold. However, the official also added that the communication between both the franchises hasn't started.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra addressed the reports of CSK seeking a trade for Sanju Samson from RR. Chopra noted that RR may seek a high-profile player like Ravindra Jadeja in exchange if discussions with CSK materialize. He acknowledged that CSK has expressed interest, but they haven't reached the stage of talks where potential trade names have been discussed.
The potential trade has sparked discussions about the financial implications. Ashwin and Dube have a combined value of approximately ₹21.75 crore, while Sanju Samson's price tag is ₹18 crore. To balance the trade, Rajasthan Royals might compensate CSK with ₹3.75 crore.
The interest from CSK in acquiring Sanju Samson stems from the need to plan beyond MS Dhoni. CSK views Samson as a potential successor to Dhoni, offering a reliable wicketkeeper-batsman with top-order firepower and experience. Samson has been a key player for the Royals since 2018. He was named the captain of the side in 2021. Sanju is also the only player to have scored more than fifty runs in the first match of a season, for six consecutive seasons playing for Rajasthan Royals.
From Rajasthan Royals' perspective, acquiring Ashwin would bolster their spin attack with a proven and experienced bowler. Dube's spin-hitting ability could be a key asset in Jaipur.
While the rumors continue to circulate, neither the player nor the franchises have confirmed any affirmative action regarding the trade. If this trade occurs, it could reshape both teams ahead of IPL 2026. CSK would gain a possible captaincy successor and consistent performer in Samson, while RR would boost its bowling and middle-order power.
