Sanju Samson Likely to Exit Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings Show Strong Interest

August 8, 2025 MTIMES 51 Views Chennai Super Kings, CSK trade deal, IPL 2026 auctions, IPL cricket news, IPL player transfers, IPL wicketkeeper trade, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, Sanju Samson transfer news, Stephen Fleming 2 min read

In a major Sanju Samson transfer news update ahead of the IPL auctions, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has expressed his wish to leave the franchise. This puts the Royals in a difficult spot — deciding whether to release him into the auction pool or work out a trade deal.

Samson, retained by Rajasthan before the last mega auction, is still under a three-year contract, which means the franchise has the power to keep him for two more seasons. However, for that to happen, both sides will need to resolve their differences.

Chennai Super Kings Keen on Signing Samson

The development has attracted strong interest from Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who are eager to bring Samson to Chepauk. The 30-year-old even met CSK head coach Stephen Fleming during the Major League Cricket season in the US. Chennai is reportedly open to signing him via a cash trade, but Rajasthan prefers an exchange involving two CSK players — creating a stalemate.

Apart from CSK, Kolkata Knight Riders are also monitoring the situation as they currently lack a frontline Indian wicketkeeper. However, sources suggest Samson is leaning towards a move to Chennai, a franchise that tried to sign him last season but failed to reach an agreement.

Rajasthan Royals’ Squad Dynamics Could Influence Decision

With openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, plus wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel in the squad, Rajasthan may consider releasing Samson to strengthen their middle and lower order. However, given that he has been the face of the franchise since 2013, the decision won’t come easily.

If Rajasthan and Chennai fail to agree on terms, it is highly likely that Samson will enter the IPL auction pool. His current price tag of ₹18 crore could limit trade options, as most teams reserve that budget for marquee players. Should Samson go to auction, CSK may have to release several players to afford him — but their intent to sign him appears unwavering.

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