Sanju Samson can end Ruturaj Gaikwad's captaincy stint - CSK-RR bridge confirms

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are planning a major shake-up ahead of IPL 2026, with talks heating up about a potential trade involving Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals (RR). The move has created a huge buzz among fans and experts, and former CSK and RR all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his thoughts on what this trade could mean for both teams.

Ashwin, who retired from the IPL after his final stint with CSK earlier this year, believes that Sanju Samson's arrival could solve multiple problems for Chennai. The former Indian all-rounder said that Sanju Samson is a complete package—a consistent batter, an experienced leader, and someone who brings stability to the top order.

Ravichandran Ashwin says Sanju Samson could be CSK’s future captain if the mega trade goes through

However, Ashwin feels that even if the trade happens, CSK may not hand over the captaincy to Sanju Samson immediately. He believes that the franchise would first want Sanju Samson to settle into their system before considering him for leadership duties in the future.

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For now, Ruturaj Gaikwad remains the captain, but after MS Dhoni had to temporarily return to the role during IPL 2025 when the Maharashtra batter was injured, questions about CSK’s long-term leadership have been growing. Ashwin feels Samson could be the ideal future captain once he adjusts to the Chennai environment and earns the team’s trust.

Ravichandran Ashwin said on ‘Ash ki Baat’: “I don’t think Sanju will get captaincy at CSK because it would be his first year, and I am not sure they will give him captaincy right away. But he will definitely be an option to lead in the future if the trade happens.”

If Sanju Samson joins CSK, the team’s batting combination could see a complete revamp. Ashwin pointed out that Samson could open alongside young batter Ayush Badoni, with Ruturaj Gaikwad moving down to number three, where he prefers to bat. This could give CSK a stronger top order and better balance overall.

Ravindran Ashwin calls Ravindra Jadeja’s possible exit from CSK a massive decision with emotional impact

However, the big talking point is the possible exit of Ravindra Jadeja as part of this trade. Ashwin called it a massive decision by CSK, given Jadeja’s long-standing connection with the franchise.

He emphasized that Jadeja has been one of CSK’s biggest match-winners, so losing a world-class spinner, an electric fielder, and a dependable finisher would not be easy for the team and fans.

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The former Indian all-rounder said, “One thing in the fans’ minds will be Jadeja’s affinity for CSK. Jadeja is no small player for CSK. There is some emotion attached to Jadeja and CSK. And trading is not something they have done in the past.”

Ashwin added, “The loss would be that from where will they bring another spinner? Who is going to be that spinner who they will bank upon to bowl the middle overs? Who is that gun marquee fielder for them? Finishing is the issue.”

Ravichandran Ashwin says Ravindra Jadeja’s switch to RR could mark a new chapter in his career

The iconic off-spinner also mentioned that if Jadeja does move to Rajasthan Royals, it could be a fresh opportunity for him to take on a new challenge and mentor a young, energetic side filled with emerging players.

Ashwin signed off by saying, “This could also be a good opportunity for Jadeja. RR is a team built on a lot of youngsters and a lot of connections. It is a big decision for CSK to leave Jadeja out.”