Dispute Over Retaining Star Player: Sanju Samson Pushed for Retention, RR Authority Rejected, Leading to Differences, Samson Chooses to Depart Instead
Sanju Samson, the charismatic captain of the Rajasthan Royals (RR), has requested a change of direction from the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 auction[1]. Despite this, the Royals have not yet made a final decision regarding Samson's future, considering whether to keep him, trade him, or release him into the auction pool[1][2].
Active trade discussions are currently underway, with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerging as potential destinations[2][4][5].
CSK has shown keen interest in acquiring Samson via a trade, but negotiations have hit a snag. Rajasthan is reportedly seeking a player exchange deal, while CSK prefers a cash trade[2]. On the other hand, KKR is prepared to offer domestic players like Angkrish Raghuvanshi or Ramandeep Singh, or a combination of players with additional cash to tempt Rajasthan in a trade[4][5].
RR's owner Manoj Badale is personally overseeing the trade negotiations and has started seeking expressions of interest from multiple franchises to explore trade options[3]. The trade window remains open until around November 2025, prior to the mini auction for IPL 2026[3].
Jos Buttler's departure from Rajasthan Royals disrupted the core of the team's leadership and batting unit. In an interview, Samson stated that releasing Buttler was one of the most challenging decisions for him[1]. Samson has expressed dissatisfaction over the decision and reportedly wanted Buttler to stay with Rajasthan to maintain team stability and save the franchise[1].
If a suitable trade deal fails to materialize, Samson may continue with Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026. However, insiders believe this is increasingly unlikely[1]. In the meantime, Samson has praised young talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi on a recent podcast[6].
References:
- ESPNcricinfo
- Cricbuzz
- Hindustan Times
- CricTracker
- Sportskeeda
- The Times of India
Sports discussions involving Sanju Samson's potential trade have intensified, with both Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders expressing interest in acquiring him ahead of IPL 2026. CSK has proposed a cash trade, whereas KKR is willing to offer domestic players like Angkrish Raghuvanshi or Ramandeep Singh, or a combination of players along with additional cash for a trade deal.
