Sanju Samson has officially joined Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a blockbuster trade ahead of IPL 2026, with Rajasthan Royals (RR) receiving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in return. The move brings an end to Samson’s long association with the Jaipur-based franchise and marks one of the biggest player trades in IPL history.
Sanju Samson’s fifty in SMAT 2025 raises T20I selection questions
Samson has been in constant focus throughout the year. From opening for India in T20Is alongside Abhishek Sharma to facing questions over his future after a disappointing IPL 2025, the wicketkeeper-batter endured a turbulent phase. His position in the Indian setup also came under pressure following Shubman Gill’s rise, before rumours of a potential move to CSK began to gather momentum. Alongside Hardik Pandya’s switch to Mumbai Indians, Samson’s transfer has now emerged as one of the most significant deals the league has seen.
Shane Bond opens up on Sanju Samson’s exit
Rajasthan Royals assistant coach and fast-bowling mentor Shane Bond has now shared his perspective on Samson’s departure, echoing team owner Manoj Badale’s view that the player was emotionally drained. Bond suggested that a change of environment can sometimes benefit both parties.
“Sometimes it’s the best thing for both the team and the player to get a fresh environment and a fresh experience,” Bond told The Quint. “I really enjoyed working with Sanju. He’s a very funny guy, has a great sense of humour, and we connected really well. It’s going to feel weird seeing him in yellow, but I’m sure I’ll still see that cheeky grin. Of course, you hope he doesn’t score runs against you, but when you’ve spent time with someone, you care about them and want them to do well wherever they are.”
Chennai Super Kings have acquired far more than a marquee name. In Samson, they gain a proven match-winner, a long-term wicketkeeping option in the post-MS Dhoni era, and a ready-made leadership candidate if the need arises. His move to CSK had been rumoured for months before becoming official last month.
When Samson first donned the iconic yellow jersey, he admitted the feeling was unlike anything he had experienced before. Wearing CSK’s No. 11, he appeared to slip naturally into the franchise’s culture, a moment that resonated strongly with fans.
The trade involving Samson, Jadeja and Curran has already been labelled the biggest in IPL history. Rajasthan Royals parted ways with their captain, while CSK let go of a franchise stalwart in Jadeja, along with the all-rounder Curran. Both franchises took bold calls after finishing last and second-last, respectively in IPL 2025.
Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as CSK’s captain, with MS Dhoni expected to remain behind the stumps. That leaves Samson beginning his CSK journey as a specialist batter at least for now, even though his skill set suggests his role could evolve significantly over time.
