Sanju Samson Set to Leave RR, Eyeing CSK Move Before IPL 2026 After Bold Demand to Management

Udaipur, Aug 8, 2025: As per media reports, Rajasthan Royals team member Sanju Samson has asked his franchisee to either trade him or release him before IPL 2026.

The franchise has explored several options, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK), which has shown interest in him. However, RR is not fully in favor of the move. Meanwhile, some close members of Samson’s family have said that he no longer sees his future with Rajasthan Royals. Some IPL and international cricketers close to Samson have raised concerns about the team atmosphere at Rajasthan Royals.

IPL Rules

Under IPL rules, any player who is bought in the auction or retained by a franchise is tied to that team for three years. During this period, the player cannot leave the team on his own. If Sanju wants to leave Rajasthan Royals, the decision can only be made by the franchise — either by releasing him or trading him to another team.

Sanju’s current contract will end after the 2027 season, which means he still has two more seasons left with Rajasthan Royals.

Destination CSK?

Since IPL 2025, there have been speculations that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is looking at Sanju Samson as a possible successor to MS Dhoni. Some reports suggest that the CSK management has discussed future strategies in internal meetings.