Prior to the 2026 season, Sanju Samson is reportedly being pursued by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), two of the most well-known teams in the Indian Premier League. A prospective blockbuster move has been set in motion as speculation about the Rajasthan Royals captain’s likely departure has grown in the months leading up to the mini-auction.
Both CSK and KKR have reportedly shown a great desire to hire Samson due to their appreciation of his reliable form, capacity for leadership, and explosive batting ability. The 29-year-old batsman-wicketkeeper has been a mainstay of the Royals’ lineup for many years, but rumours have it that contract talks have reached a standstill, which has sparked rumours of a departure.
The Rajasthan Royals have yet to release an official statement, but the franchise’s social media silence has only added to the speculation. Meanwhile, fans from both CSK and KKR have taken to online platforms to campaign for Samson’s inclusion in their teams, making him one of the most talked-about players of the upcoming IPL cycle.
If the transfer materializes, it could significantly reshape the team dynamics and leadership roles at either franchise. With the mini-auction on the horizon, the cricketing world is closely watching where Sanju Samson’s next chapter will unfold.