Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have once again entered the Sanju Samson trade conversation, just days after reports suggested they had stepped away from the negotiations. Samson, who has formally requested a release from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, remains one of the most sought-after names on the trading table.
Last week, Delhi Capitals (DC) were reported to be holding discussions with RR for a potential deal involving Samson. The wicketkeeper-batter had previously represented Delhi in 2016 and 2017 during the Delhi Daredevils era. RR, however, demanded a hefty return — South African power-hitter Tristan Stubbs, along with an uncapped Indian player — a proposal DC had not responded to at the time.
Amid these developments, CSK have reportedly re-entered the frame. As per a Cricbuzz report, Royals co-owner Manoj Badale has personally reached out to multiple franchises, taking charge of the negotiations himself. His demands have been specific and ambitious.
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While Stubbs was placed on the table for DC, the Royals have reportedly asked CSK for one of Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Shivam Dube in exchange for Samson.
🚨Sanju Samson trade talks back on CSK table
CSK and RR have re-established contact over a potential trade involving Samson, and it would not be a surprise if a top CSK player is included in the deal#IPL2026 #IndianCricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/zpxNLlHRFb
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) November 7, 2025
CSK have already rejected the idea of trading Dube, who is currently the only one among the three consistently featuring in India’s T20I setup. With his prime years still ahead, CSK consider him a long-term asset.
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As for Jadeja and Gaikwad, the possibility of a move appears even slimmer. Jadeja has been the heart of CSK since 2012, while Gaikwad is not just their premier top-order batter but the face of their leadership group as captain.
For now, RR’s bold demands keep the trade gridlocked — but Samson’s future remains the biggest storyline heading into the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
