Not Ravindra Jadeja! MS Dhoni compromises himself in Sanju Samson deal

Sanju Samson’s possible departure from Rajasthan Royals (RR) has become one of the most talked-about stories ahead of the IPL mini-auction, set to take place in December. Rajasthan held talks with Delhi Capitals over a trade, but the discussions fell through after both sides failed to reach common ground.

Sanju Samson reportedly expressed his desire to end his association with Rajasthan Royals, sparking interest across franchises. Several teams reached out and held discussions over the past few months. However, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who began negotiations some time ago, still remain in active talks.

Sanju Samson’s Failed Delhi Capitals Deal Reignites Chennai Super Kings’ Interest

According to The Times of India, the Rajasthan Royals had approached Chennai for a possible swap that would bring Ravindra Jadeja back to the franchise after 16 years. However, with CSK showing little interest at the time, RR turned their attention to the Delhi Capitals for negotiations.

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Rajasthan and Delhi discussed a potential exchange involving Sanju Samson and South African batter Tristan Stubbs. The deal was reportedly close to completion. However, RR demanded an uncapped player, Sameer Rizvi. Delhi was unwilling to part with Rizvi.

The negotiations had progressed so far that several senior and overseas players in the Delhi camp were informed of the possible swap. After the collapse of the Samson-Stubbs deal, RR revived their earlier discussions with CSK, once again exploring the possibility of a trade involving Ravindra Jadeja.

MS Dhoni Expected to Return in 2026, but Sanju Samson Trade Could Limit His On-Field Role

Chennai Super Kings reportedly reopened talks with Ravindra Jadeja during the trade discussions. One of the team’s senior administrators was assigned to hold direct discussions with Jadeja and gain clarity on his stance moving forward.

This was not the first time that Rajasthan Royals and CSK had explored a possible swap involving Sanju Samson, but unlike earlier occasions, both sides appeared more serious this time. Rajasthan’s failed attempts to finalize a deal with other franchises led them back to CSK.

Meanwhile, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan expressed optimism about MS Dhoni’s return for the 2026 season. However, if the Samson trade goes through, Dhoni’s role might be reduced, limiting his appearances on the field next year.

"We are extremely hopeful that he (MS Dhoni) will be playing the next season," Kasi Viswanathan had told TimesofIndia.com.

Sanju Samson: The Backbone of Rajasthan Royals for Over a Decade

Sanju Samson has been a key player for the Rajasthan Royals for over a decade. He joined the franchise in 2013 and was retained ahead of the 2014 season. The wicketkeeper-batter led the side in 67 matches with a record of 33 wins and 33 losses.

In 2024, Samson amassed 531 runs at an average of 48.27 and a strike rate of 153.47. The Jaipur-based franchise retained him for ₹18 crore ahead of the 2025 season. However, the Rajasthan Royals struggled in IPL 2025, finishing ninth in the points table.

Samson battled injuries during the tournament, and Riyan Parag took over the captaincy. He played only nine matches, scoring 285 runs at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39, including one half-century.

Overall, Samson has scored 4,704 runs in 177 matches at an average of 30.94 and a strike rate of 139.04, with 26 half-centuries and three centuries. He remains one of the most dependable batters in the tournament.

Also read: Punjab Kings to release only 2 important players, IPL 2026 auction list reveals