MS Dhoni trade? Rajasthan Royals aim to snatch top CSK stars in big Sanju Samson deal

Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson reportedly wants to leave the team, with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) showing interest in signing the wicketkeeper-batter. According to the latest reports, the inaugural champions want two CSK players in exchange for Samson ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

The 30-year-old made his IPL debut for Rajasthan in 2013. Samson went on to play for the franchise until 2015 before joining the Delhi franchise when RR was suspended for two seasons. Earlier in his career, he was part of Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) 2012 IPL-winning squad but did not play in any matches.

CSK Open to Cash Deal for Sanju Samson, But RR Demand Two Players in Exchange

According to a Cricbuzz report, Sanju Samson has asked Rajasthan Royals to trade or release him before the IPL 2026 auction. The report also stated that his family believes he no longer wishes to represent the inaugural IPL champions.

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A day after reports, The Indian Express revealed that Chennai Super Kings are interested in signing Sanju Samson. CSK’s management and coach Stephen Fleming met Samson in the US after IPL 2025. While Chennai are open to a cash trade, Rajasthan want two players in exchange.

“It is understood that Chennai are open to the idea of bringing the 30-year-old to Chepauk through a trade deal via cash. But it has hit a roadblock, with Rajasthan preferring an exchange of two players from Chennai," Indian Express reported.

KKR Interested in Sanju Samson, But the Player Favors CSK

Three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders are also eyeing Samson, but he is reportedly more inclined to join Chennai. Samson is likely to enter the IPL auction if Rajasthan and Chennai fail to reach a deal.

“Samson seems to be keen on making a move to Chennai for multiple reasons. According to those in the know, the chances of Samson entering the auctions are highly likely at this stage if both Rajasthan and Chennai don’t reach an agreement," the report added.

Samson played just nine matches for the Jaipur-based franchise in IPL 2025. He scored 285 runs at an average of 35.63 and a strike rate of 140.39. The team endured a poor campaign, finishing the season ninth in the standings.

CSK Must Offer Player Trade to Sign Sanju Samson for IPL 2025

Chennai Super Kings would have to trade players to acquire Sanju Samson, who was Rajasthan Royals’ top retention at ₹18 crore ahead of IPL 2025. Samson has requested a trade or release, but he is under contract until 2027, which leaves the final call with the Royals’ management.

Rajasthan retaining an unhappy player affects team morale, but letting go of a star they have groomed for years is equally difficult. The franchise has contacted multiple teams to explore trade possibilities, yet none have made an offer they consider acceptable.

CSK are not willing to release any of their current players, and Rajasthan has made it clear they will not accept an all-cash deal for Samson.

Also read: David Wiese officially named St Lucia Kings captain for CPL 2025 as Faf du Plessis ditches franchise