The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 trade window has opened and one name making the loudest buzz is Sanju Samson, the current captain and wicketkeeper-batter of Rajasthan Royals (RR). As per multiple reliable reports including Cricbuzz and Hindustan Times, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have officially confirmed their interest in bringing Samson into their squad.
A senior CSK official has gone on record saying:
“We are definitely looking at Sanju. He is an Indian batter, who is a keeper and an opener. So if he is available, we will certainly have a look at the option of having him in our fold.”
However, CSK has not yet made a formal approach to the Royals’ management.
What Makes Sanju Samson a Hot Trade Target?
| Player | Team | Role | 2025 Retention Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanju Samson | Rajasthan Royals | Captain, Wicketkeeper-Batter | ₹18 crore |
- Samson is one of the few Indian wicketkeeper-batters who can bat in the top order.
- He is also seen as a potential successor to MS Dhoni at CSK as the franchise begins a rebuild after finishing last in IPL 2025.
- Samson played 9 matches in IPL 2025, scoring 285 runs, with a highest score of 66 vs SRH.
Potential Trade Options: Who Could CSK Offer in Return?
Since both Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad are valued at ₹18 crore, some speculated a possible Gaikwad-for-Samson swap, but this looks unlikely. Head coach Stephen Fleming has publicly stated that Gaikwad’s captaincy is a long-term vision.
Other possible names floated in trade talks include:
| CSK Player | 2025 Value |
|---|---|
| Ravichandran Ashwin | ₹14.25 crore |
| Shivam Dube | ₹7.5 crore |
Together, Ashwin + Dube could offer a financial match for Samson’s price, making a multi-player trade a viable option.
Current Trade Window Timelines
According to IPL rules:
- First Trade Window (Open Now):
From 7 days after IPL 2025 season end until 7 days before the 2026 Auction. - Second Trade Window:
From 1 day after the 2026 Auction till 30 days before the 2026 season starts.
Important Trade Rules:
- A player can only be traded once for the upcoming season.
- Players taken in the auction cannot be traded that season.
- BCCI approval is required for trades involving salary adjustments.
- Overseas player trades require an NOC from their board.
Why Is This Move Significant for CSK?
- CSK is planning for a post-Dhoni era, and Sanju Samson fits their need for:
- A domestic wicketkeeper-batsman
- Leadership potential
- Long-term retention value
Fleming confirmed that Dhoni’s playing time is now managed carefully:
“His knees aren’t what they used to be. He can’t bat 10 overs running full stick.”
What’s Happening at Rajasthan Royals?
- RR finished second-last in IPL 2025.
- Samson missed 5 matches due to side strain, with Riyan Parag captaining in his absence.
- RR recently had a season review in London, attended by head coach Rahul Dravid.
- Dravid dismissed rumours of any rift with Samson:
“Sanju and I are on the same page. Reports of conflict are baseless.”
RR’s lead owner Manoj Badale is expected to make the final decision on any trade involving Samson.
What’s Next?
- CSK has not yet made a formal offer to RR.
- Multiple franchises, not just CSK, are reportedly interested in Samson.
- A deal is unlikely to happen immediately but could gain traction before the 2026 auction deadline.
Conclusion
While no deal is confirmed yet, CSK’s official interest in Sanju Samson is real and strategic. With MS Dhoni likely in the final phase of his career and CSK looking to rebuild after a poor 2025 season, Sanju Samson might just be the future face of the franchise. All eyes are now on Rajasthan Royals and what move they will make next.
