Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have expressed strong interest in acquiring Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson during the ongoing IPL 2026 trade window. The wicketkeeper-batsman, retained by RR for ₹18 crore, has emerged as one of the most sought-after Indian players, with multiple franchises reportedly approaching the Royals regarding a potential move. While CSK has yet to formally initiate discussions with Rajasthan, a senior franchise official confirmed their intent to explore the possibility of bringing Samson into their fold. “We are definitely looking at Sanju. He is an Indian batter, who is a keeper and an opener. So if he is available, we will certainly have a look at the option of having him in our fold. Who we will trade him with we have not taken that call because the matter has not gone that far. But yes, in principle, we are interested,” the CSK official told Cricbuzz. However, trade logistics remain complicated. Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK’s newly appointed captain, who was also retained at ₹18 crore, could theoretically serve as a like-for-like swap. Yet, with head coach Stephen Fleming repeatedly describing Gaikwad’s appointment as a long-term leadership decision, a trade involving the current CSK skipper seems unlikely.
CSK, historically conservative in the trade market, have only made one notable swap in recent years, which was to bring in Robin Uthappa from RR in an all-cash deal before IPL 2021. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals, fresh off a performance review meeting in London attended by newly appointed head coach Rahul Dravid, are evaluating multiple trade requests for several players. With both Samson and Dhruv Jurel in their ranks, the franchise is well-stocked in terms of top-order Indian wicketkeeper-batters.
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Should CSK pursue a trade for Sanju Samson?
Any movement on this front is expected to take time and RR co-owner Manoj Badale is expected to have the final say on any prospective deal. The IPL 2026 trading window is currently open, with strict regulations governing franchise negotiations, league fee adjustments, and player fitness assessments. All trades must also receive BCCI approval and adhere to the salary cap and contract rules set forth by the league.
