In one of the most talked-about moves ahead of IPL 2026, Sanju Samson is set to don the Chennai Super Kings jersey after ending a long and successful stint with the Rajasthan Royals. The Kerala wicketkeeper-batter made the switch in a trade deal finalised before the IPL 2026 auction, a decision that surprised fans across the league.
For Samson, however, the move was driven by clarity rather than impulse. After representing Rajasthan Royals across multiple phases—from 2013 to 2015 and again from 2018 to 2025—he felt his journey with the franchise had naturally reached its conclusion. Over the years, Samson evolved into a cornerstone of the Royals’ setup, eventually becoming their most-capped player and leading run-scorer, a testament to his consistency and leadership.
His transition to Chennai Super Kings marks the beginning of a fresh chapter in his IPL career. Interestingly, his debut for CSK in IPL 2026 will come against his former team, adding an emotional subplot to an already high-profile fixture at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
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Despite the narrative, Sanju Samson remains grounded and focused on performance. Reflecting on the upcoming clash, he said, “It’s a situation that hasn’t happened yet. This is the first time I’m going to play against RR after playing for them in IPL. I don’t really think about the emotions once I step onto the ground. The game will definitely dictate it.”
VIDEO | Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: “This is the first time I will play against Rajasthan Royals, but I don’t let emotions rule me on the field. I left Rajasthan Royals because I felt my time in the team was over. Even if we come up against them now, I will play my best cricket,”… pic.twitter.com/yhzyONME20
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 16, 2026
He acknowledged the deep bonds he still shares with former teammates, support staff, and the Royals management, emphasising that mutual respect remains intact.
“There are a lot of players we grew up playing with, and the support staff is still there. There’s always love and respect. But everyone has their own time. My time with RR was over, and I felt it was right to move forward,” he added.
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Looking ahead, Sanju Samson is embracing the change with optimism. “It’s a new journey. Even if I play against RR, I want to play with happiness,” he said—summing up a transition shaped by gratitude, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.
