The Indian Premier League (IPL) trade season is heating up, and one of the biggest rumours doing the rounds is that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are eyeing Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson. The speculation gained traction after a Cricbuzz report claimed CSK showed strong interest in acquiring the wicketkeeper-batter.
A CSK official reportedly said the team is interested in Samson as a long-term option, especially with MS Dhoni likely nearing retirement. The official stated that Sanju is an Indian batter, a keeper, and an opener—qualities that fit CSK’s future plans. However, the trade is still in the early stages, with no official confirmation from either franchise or the player.
Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra weighed in on the developments on his YouTube channel. He stated that if the talks between the two teams progress, Rajasthan Royals may ask for a senior player in return. Chopra speculated that either Ravindra Jadeja or Ravichandran Ashwin could be requested in exchange for Samson.
Chopra added that while CSK have not yet finalized a potential trade candidate, Rajasthan have every right to ask for a high-profile player in return. He also explained why CSK’s interest in Samson makes perfect sense.
“CSK want to plan beyond MS Dhoni, and a keeper-batter like Samson fits the bill. He can open, anchor the innings, and be a future leader,” Chopra said.
Sanju Samson has been with Rajasthan Royals since 2018 and was named captain in 2021. He holds a unique record of scoring fifty-plus runs in the first match of six consecutive IPL seasons for the Royals.
It is still unclear whether any trade, if finalized, will be a player-for-player exchange or involve an all-cash deal. Fans now wait for official updates as the IPL trading window progresses.