Speculation around Sanju Samson's future has intensified, with reports suggesting the Rajasthan Royals (RR) are actively exploring trade options for their
long-time captain in the upcoming IPL 2026.
According to Cricbuzz, the franchise has reached out to several IPL teams to gauge interest in acquiring the India wicketkeeper-batter, with RR co-owner Manoj Badale personally leading the discussions.
It is believed that Badale has even proposed the names of specific players from other franchises that RR would be willing to accept in exchange for Samson. One of the most talked-about possibilities is a move to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
However, that route seems complicated, as RR is reportedly asking for either Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad - a demand CSK is unwilling to consider. Shivam Dube's name has also surfaced in trade chatter, but Chennai is understood to be reluctant to part with him as well.
While rumors suggest RR might already be close to an agreement with another team, no official confirmation has emerged. With negotiations kept largely confidential - letters reportedly sent directly to franchise owners - the outcome remains uncertain.
If no trade materializes, Samson could still stay with RR, though he has formally requested a move, citing a desire for "a new direction. " Tensions are believed to have arisen after the Royals opted to release Jos Buttler, a decision Samson admitted hit him hard. "Letting him go has been one of the most challenging decisions for me.
During the England series, I told him over dinner that I was still not over it. If I could change one thing in the IPL, I would change the rule of releasing players every three years," Samson told Star Sports before the last season.
Despite the reported differences, Samson has spoken warmly about the Royals setup in public, telling R Ashwin on a podcast that the franchise "means a world" to him and praising young talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi.
For now, Samson's fate hinges on ongoing talks - with multiple franchises showing interest - but whether a blockbuster trade will happen before the next season remains to be seen.
