The Rajasthan Royals (RR) are at the centre of one of the biggest potential trades ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Their captain and star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has formally asked the franchise to either trade him to another team or release him from his contract.
Samson’s Exit Request
Sanju Samson has been with RR since 2013 (except for two years with Delhi) and has captained the side since 2021. Under his leadership, RR reached the IPL 2022 final and consistently remained competitive. However, reports suggest Samson now wants a fresh challenge and has informed RR management of his decision to leave before the next season’s auction.
Swap Deal Discussions Begin
In response, RR’s owner Manoj Badale and team management have started exploring swap deals with other franchises to get a high-value player in return for Samson. According to reports, RR has approached Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and named three possible players they would want in exchange:
- Ravindra Jadeja – senior all-rounder, a match-winner with both bat and ball, and one of CSK’s biggest icons.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad – stylish opener and former CSK captain, known for consistency at the top of the order.
- Shivam Dube – explosive middle-order hitter who can also contribute with medium pace.
CSK’s Response
CSK is said to be interested in getting Samson because of his batting and leadership skills, but they don’t want to let go of any of the three players RR has asked for. Jadeja is a key part of their team, Gaikwad is seen as a future leader, and Dube is an important middle-order hitter. This has put the trade talks on hold for now.
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Why This Trade Matters
Sanju Samson’s departure would mark the end of an era for Rajasthan Royals. He has been their most consistent batter in recent years and a fan favourite. Losing him without a quality replacement could hurt RR’s balance.
At the same time, CSK bringing in Samson would solve their long-term wicketkeeper-batter need and provide a leadership option once MS Dhoni fully steps away from the game.
RR’s Backup Plan
Sources suggest RR is already preparing for life after Samson. Dhruv Jurel, who impressed in the 2024 and 2025 seasons, could be promoted as the team’s first-choice wicketkeeper and possibly even take over captaincy duties.
Current Situation
As of August 14, 2025, the trade remains in discussion stage. No final decision has been made, and both RR and CSK will likely revisit talks before the IPL 2026 trade window closes.
In Short
- Sanju Samson wants to leave RR before IPL 2026.
- RR has asked for Jadeja, Ruturaj, or Dube in exchange, mainly from CSK.
- CSK is interested but unwilling to give up those players.
- Dhruv Jurel could replace Samson if the trade happens.
Conclusion
For now, Sanju Samson’s future remains uncertain, and the trade talks between RR and CSK are at a standstill. With both sides holding firm on their terms, it will be interesting to see if a breakthrough comes before the IPL 2026 trade window closes.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
