According to Cricbuzz, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have turned down multiple trade proposals from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) involving Sanju Samson. Reports indicate that RR offered their skipper to CSK in exchange for either Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, or Shivam Dube. However, CSK remained steadfast and declined the offers.
For context, Samson had requested RR to either trade or release him ahead of the 2026 IPL auction, a development that surfaced around the same time last week. The news has been a major talking point in Indian cricket, with several franchises reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring the RR captain. Samson has been with the Royals since his IPL debut in 2013.
In IPL 2025, Samson missed five matches and featured in several others only as an Impact Substitute due to injury setbacks. During his absence, Riyan Parag took over the captaincy, and there is speculation that RR might consider appointing Parag as the full-time skipper from the next season.
CSK had their worst-ever season in IPL 2025, finishing last for the first time. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad played only five matches before injury ruled him out. Ravindra Jadeja scored over 300 runs and took 10 wickets, while Shivam Dube managed 357 runs at a strike rate of 132.22, but neither could prevent the slump.
Sanju Samson Expresses Deep Gratitude Towards Rajasthan Royals
Amid trade rumors, Sanju Samson praised RR on Ashwin’s YouTube channel, days after his trade request went viral. The 30-year-old has 4,700+ IPL runs at 30.94 and a strike rate near 140.
“Rajasthan Royals has meant the world to me. A small child coming from a village in Kerala, wanting to show his talent. And then Rahul (Dravid) sir and Manoj Badale sir gave me a stage to get up and show the world what I am made of.”
“That time, they trusted me throughout. The journey with Rajasthan Royals has been really great, and I’m very grateful to have been in a franchise like that. It really means a lot to me.”
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