In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the IPL fraternity, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has formally requested the franchise to release him ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. The Kerala wicketkeeper-batsman’s decision to seek an exit from the team he has captained since 2021 marks the end of a tumultuous relationship and sets up one of the most intriguing storylines for the upcoming mega auction.
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The Formal Request and Timeline
According to ESPN Cricinfo, Sanju Samson communicated his desire to leave Rajasthan Royals immediately after the conclusion of IPL 2025. The 30-year-old captain made his intentions clear during the franchise’s season review meetings held in June, formally requesting either a trade to another franchise or outright release into the auction pool.
The request has created a complex situation for Rajasthan Royals management, who have yet to provide Samson with a definitive response. Lead owner Manoj Badale has declined to comment publicly on the matter, while the final decision will be made in coordination with head coach Rahul Dravid.
Under IPL regulations, franchises hold the ultimate authority in such situations, meaning Rajasthan Royals can technically retain Samson regardless of his wishes, as players are contractually bound for three years following retention or auction purchase.
The Root of the Conflict
Multiple sources close to the situation have revealed that “serious differences” have emerged between Samson and the Rajasthan Royals management. Family members and close associates of the player have confirmed that he no longer wishes to continue with the franchise, citing deteriorating relationships and unfulfilled expectations.
One of the primary issues appears to be Samson’s batting position within the team structure. The captain reportedly wanted to open the innings, mirroring his role in India’s T20I setup, but found himself relegated to number three following the impressive emergence of young opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi during IPL 2025.
This positional concern extends beyond mere preference, as Samson is actively competing for the opening spot in India’s T20I team. His demotion in the Rajasthan Royals batting order potentially undermines his national team aspirations, creating a professional conflict that may have contributed to his decision.
Relationship with Rahul Dravid
Speculation about tensions between Samson and head coach Rahul Dravid gained attention during IPL 2025, particularly after the captain appeared visibly frustrated during Rajasthan’s Super Over defeat to Delhi Capitals in April. Samson was notably absent from the team huddle and seemed disinterested during discussions with Dravid.
However, Dravid publicly dismissed these rumors during a press conference, stating: “I have a good relationship with him, and I don’t know where these reports are coming from. He was a part of every discussion. These are baseless stories.”
Despite these public denials, sources suggest that underlying tensions may have persisted throughout the season, contributing to Samson’s ultimate decision to seek an exit.
Rajasthan Royals’ Disappointing 2025 Campaign
The request comes on the back of Rajasthan Royals’ dismal IPL 2025 performance, where they finished ninth in the ten-team competition with just four victories. Samson’s own contribution was limited due to a side strain injury that restricted him to only nine appearances out of 14 matches.
During his absence, Riyan Parag stepped in as captain, highlighting the team’s leadership transition challenges. The poor team performance, combined with Samson’s limited participation due to injury, may have intensified existing frustrations within the camp.
The contrast with their 2022 success, when Samson led the team to the IPL final for the first time since their inaugural championship in 2008, makes the current situation even more stark. That successful campaign featured key players like Jos Buttler and Yuzvendra Chahal, both of whom were released ahead of the 2025 mega auction despite their outstanding individual performances.
Current Market Status and Potential Destinations
Samson’s market value and reputation make him an attractive proposition for multiple franchises. As the most-capped player for Rajasthan Royals with 149 appearances and over 4,000 runs, he brings both experience and proven performance to any potential suitor.
Chennai Super Kings have emerged as the strongest contenders for Samson’s services, with multiple reports suggesting their interest in acquiring the wicketkeeper-batsman. CSK’s need for a long-term successor to MS Dhoni behind the stumps makes Samson an ideal target, though financial constraints could complicate any potential trade.
Other franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders, may also enter the race if Samson becomes available, particularly given their need for a top-order wicketkeeper-batsman who can provide leadership experience.
Financial and Contractual Complexities
Samson was retained by Rajasthan Royals for ₹18 crore ahead of the 2025 mega auction, making him one of the highest-paid players in the squad. Any potential trade would need to account for this significant financial commitment, limiting the number of franchises capable of absorbing his salary.
The three-year retention cycle, which runs until the end of IPL 2027, gives Rajasthan Royals significant leverage in negotiations. They can demand premium compensation for releasing one of their star players, or simply choose to retain him despite his preferences.
If released into the auction pool, Samson would likely command a substantial price given his experience, captaincy credentials, and dual role as wicketkeeper-batsman—a rare and valuable combination in T20 cricket.
Historical Context and Franchise Loyalty
Samson’s relationship with Rajasthan Royals spans over a decade, beginning with his IPL debut in 2013. After a brief stint with Delhi Daredevils from 2016-2017 during RR’s suspension, he returned to the franchise in 2018 and was appointed captain in 2021.
His appointment as captain came with great expectations, particularly after he scored a sensational century in his first match as skipper. The 2022 season vindicated this decision as he led the team to their first final since 2008, establishing himself as one of the IPL’s most respected leaders.
This long association makes his current request even more surprising, suggesting that the underlying issues have reached a point where continuing the relationship is no longer viable for the player.
Current Activities and National Team Prospects
Despite the franchise uncertainty, Samson continues his cricket commitments. He is currently training at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru as part of a routine program for players shortlisted by national selectors for upcoming assignments.
His selection for the Asia Cup 2025, which begins on September 9 in the UAE, appears likely based on his current training regime. Before that, he will feature in the Kerala Cricket League, where Kochi Blue Tigers acquired him for ₹26.8 lakh, making him the tournament’s most expensive player.
These commitments demonstrate Samson’s continued focus on cricket despite the franchise uncertainties, and his strong market value across different competitions.
Analysis Tables
Sanju Samson’s IPL Journey with Rajasthan Royals
| Period | Role | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2015 | Player | 46 | 1,287 | 31.39 | 125.58 | IPL debut, consistent performer |
| 2018-2020 | Senior Player | 42 | 1,416 | 35.40 | 144.73 | Return after suspension |
| 2021-2025 | Captain | 61 | 1,847 | 32.40 | 138.92 | Led team to 2022 final |
| Total | Various | 149 | 4,550 | 33.09 | 136.67 | Most-capped RR player |
IPL 2025 Performance Comparison
| Metric | Sanju Samson | Team Average | League Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 9/14 | 14 | 14 |
| Runs Scored | 276 | N/A | N/A |
| Average | 30.67 | N/A | N/A |
| Strike Rate | 142.27 | N/A | N/A |
| Dismissals | 12 | N/A | N/A |
| Team Wins | 4 | 4/14 | N/A |
Potential Trade Scenarios
| Scenario | Probability | Key Factors | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Trade to CSK | Medium | Mutual interest, succession planning | Financial constraints, salary cap |
| Release to Auction | High | Player preference, franchise decision | High auction price, multiple bidders |
| Retention by RR | Low | Contractual rights, persuasion attempts | Player unwillingness, relationship damage |
| Trade to Other Franchise | Medium | KKR interest, leadership needs | Limited options, financial viability |
Impact on Team Dynamics
Samson’s potential departure would create a significant void in Rajasthan Royals’ leadership structure. As the most experienced player and current captain, his exit would necessitate a complete restructuring of the team’s core leadership group.
Potential captaincy candidates within the current squad include Riyan Parag, who deputized during Samson’s injury absence, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, though his youth and relative inexperience may count against him for the leadership role.
The franchise would also lose their primary wicketkeeper, requiring investment in a replacement who can provide similar batting contributions while maintaining high standards behind the stumps.
Strategic Implications for IPL 2026
If Samson enters the auction pool, it could trigger a domino effect across multiple franchises. His availability would influence other teams’ retention strategies, particularly those seeking experienced wicketkeeper-batsmen with captaincy credentials.
The timing of any potential release or trade will be crucial, with the November retention deadline approaching rapidly. Franchises will need to factor Samson’s availability into their planning for both retentions and auction strategies.
Financial Market Impact
Samson’s ₹18 crore retention value sets a benchmark for his auction price, though market dynamics in 2026 could see this figure rise significantly given the scarcity of quality wicketkeeper-batsmen in the player pool.
For Rajasthan Royals, losing Samson would free up substantial salary cap space, allowing them to pursue other marquee players or invest in building a more balanced squad for the future.
Future Possibilities and Timeline
Rajasthan Royals have approximately two months until the November retention deadline to make their final decision. This period could involve intensive negotiations to address Samson’s concerns and potentially convince him to stay.
If no resolution is reached, the franchise faces the choice between honoring their captain’s request or exercising their contractual rights to retain him against his wishes—a decision that could have long-term implications for the team’s culture and player relations.
Looking Ahead
The resolution of Samson’s situation will significantly impact both his career trajectory and Rajasthan Royals’ future planning. For a player who has given over a decade of service to the franchise and established himself as their most iconic recent captain, this potential parting represents a major inflection point in IPL history.
The coming weeks will determine whether this represents a negotiating position that can be resolved through dialogue and compromise, or a definitive end to one of the IPL’s most enduring player-franchise relationships.
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FAQs
Why does Sanju Samson want to leave Rajasthan Royals after so many years?
Reports suggest “serious differences” with management over his batting position (wants to open instead of batting at #3), relationship issues, and frustration after RR’s poor 2025 campaign where they finished 9th with only 4 wins.
Can Rajasthan Royals force Sanju Samson to stay despite his request?
Yes, under IPL rules, franchises have the final say on player retention/release. Samson is contractually bound until the end of IPL 2027, so RR can retain him regardless of his preferences.
Which teams are interested in acquiring Sanju Samson? C
hennai Super Kings have shown the strongest interest as they seek MS Dhoni’s successor. Kolkata Knight Riders are also reportedly interested, while other franchises may enter the race if he becomes available.
What was Sanju Samson’s retention value and how much could he cost in auction?
He was retained for ₹18 crore in the previous auction. If released, his auction price could be similar or higher given his experience, captaincy credentials, and wicketkeeper-batsman skill set.
When will Rajasthan Royals make their final decision on Samson’s request?
RR have until the November 2025 retention deadline to decide whether to release, trade, or retain Samson. A follow-up meeting with management is expected in the coming weeks.
