Sanju Samson most recently met the Rajasthan Royals’ coaching team member, Siddhartha Lahiri, fueling the doubts regarding his possible shift to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of IPL 2026.
Samson shares good ties with Lahiri, who is Head of International Player Development, working for RR. Samson also spent time with the pool of young cricketers at the Rajasthan Royals Academy, creating a memorable and inspiring experience for the budding talents. The kids, dressed in their academy kits, enjoyed exchanging words with their idol, receiving autographs and posing for photos.
The event reflected Samson’s genuine connection with fans and his support for nurturing future cricket stars. However, while thinking of Samson’s future with RR, the recent developments suggest there is possibly a track for Samson’s departure from RR’s team in IPL 2026. If there is nothing else, why would they meet, given that the IPL 2026 is still far away and there will be a small auction event just before the 19th IPL edition?
Samson’s Trade rumours to join CSK
The future of Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson in the Indian Premier League remains under the spotlight as trade rumours intensified ahead of the 2026 auction. Amid strong speculation of a possible move to CSK, Samson was recently seen meeting with the RR coaching staff, further fueling conversations around his status with the franchise.
Samson, who has represented RR in 11 IPL seasons and captained the side since 2021, endured a difficult 2025 campaign. Plagued by injury and inconsistent form, the wicketkeeper-batter missed five games and finished the season with 285 runs in nine matches at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39. RR had a disappointing season overall, finishing ninth with just four wins in 14 matches. In Samson’s absence, youngster Vaibhav Suryavanshi impressed, while Yashasvi Jaiswal continued to lead the batting charts.
CSK Trade Rumours Gain Steam
Reports suggest that CSK is keen to acquire the 30-year-old Samson, especially as they look to plan for the times after the retirement of MS Dhoni. Rumours of a trade deal gained momentum, possibly involving a swap that would send Ravichandran Ashwin and Shivam Dube to RR in exchange for Samson. The speculations rose after Samson’s agent, Prashobh Sudevan, liked a post hinting at a move to CSK.
According to a report, CSK showed interest in acquiring Samson, suggesting the franchise would welcome him if RR release him. If the final choice becomes clear, Samson could be in line to take over the gloves and leadership from Dhoni if the CSK’s icon decides to retire ahead of IPL 2026.
