Sanju Samson issues 1st statement on joining CSK for IPL 2026
Published - 01 Aug 2025, 11:49 AM | Updated - 01 Aug 2025, 11:51 AM

There has been speculation over Sanju Samson’s move from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since the end of the IPL 2025 season. Samson responded to the trade rumors without a clear denial, and many believe he would have dismissed the idea if he had no plans to leave Rajasthan.
The trading window has ignited speculation, with top players at the center of attention. Cryptic social media activity by team officials and confirmed interest from franchise management have added to the buzz. With teams reassessing their plans after a mixed season, the transfer chatter is only gaining momentum.
No Official Word on Sanju Samson Joining CSK for IPL 2026
There has been no official announcement regarding Sanju Samson joining the Chennai Super Kings for the IPL 2026 season. The Kerala-born cricketer, who has been a mainstay at the Rajasthan Royals, is rumored to be preparing for a move to CSK.
CSK had a disastrous IPL 2025 season, finishing last with just eight points. It’s worth mentioning that it was their worst performance in the franchise's history.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals also struggled, ending ninth with the same points tally, as Samson’s campaign was hampered by injuries. With both teams looking to rebuild, CSK's reported interest in the RR captain is major news ahead of the 2026 season.
Sanju Samson Retained by Rajasthan Royals for ₹18 Crore Ahead of the Mega Auction
Sanju Samson was retained by Rajasthan Royals for ₹18 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. However, he endured a tough season both as a batter and as a leader. Rajasthan Royals had a poor campaign, finishing ninth on the points table with only four wins from 14 matches.
Samson’s own performance was below expectations. He played just nine matches, scoring 285 runs at an average of 35.62 and a strike rate of 140.39, with only one half-century.
His season was disrupted by injuries. The batter started as an Impact Player in the first three matches before suffering an abdominal injury against Delhi Capitals (DC), which sidelined him for five games. Riyan Parag stepped in as captain during his absence.
Samson first joined RR in 2013 and returned in 2018 after a stint with Delhi between 2015 and 2017. He has since remained a key figure at the franchise in the tournament.
Sanju Samson Issues 1st Statement On Joining CSK
When asked by reporters in Malayalam about rumors of a potential trade from Rajasthan Royals to Chennai Super Kings, Sanju Samson simply responded with "onum parayanilla," which means "no comments."
His reply sparked further speculation, as many noted that if there was no truth to the rumor, he likely would have denied it outright, as some other players have done in similar situations. With no clear confirmation or denial from Samson, fans and analysts now await IPL Retention Day for clarity.
Media : Are you living RR and joining CSK?
— 𝐁𝐑𝐔𝐓𝐔 (@Brutu24) July 31, 2025
Sanju Samson : No Comments
He would've rejected it outright if he isn't leaving RR pic.twitter.com/dVDVjov62B
Na, he just said "no comments" not "don't want to disclose anything".
— Rohit Sankar (@imRohit_SN) July 31, 2025
"Onum parayanilla" was the exact phrase.
Samson’s possible exit from RR is due to key factors. He lost his preferred opening spot to Vaibhav Suryavanshi during his injury absence, and internal competition for leadership roles has left him unsettled.
Also read: Watch: Chris Woakes fumes at Oval curator Lee Fortis after fight with Gautam Gambhir
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