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The Sanju Samson factor: How 'shocking' CSK move via IPL trade could bring RR to their knees

Rajgeeta Yadav

Rajasthan Royals set to trade Sanju Samson [Source: AFP]Rajasthan Royals set to trade Sanju Samson [Source: AFP]

The IPL 2026 mega auction is just around the corner, and excitement is already building up. Reports suggest that we might see one of the biggest player trades in IPL history, Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson could be traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.

While both teams have reportedly spoken to the players involved, nothing has been confirmed officially. If this blockbuster deal does happen, it will definitely change the dynamics of both teams. But for Rajasthan Royals, losing Sanju Samson could mean much more than just losing a player. Here are three major things RR might miss if Samson leaves for CSK.

1. Captaincy Influence

Sanju Samson has been the heart and soul of the Rajasthan Royals for years. Since taking over the captaincy in 2021, he has led the team in 67 matches across four seasons. His smart strategies, and strong performances have made him one of RR’s most valuable assets.

Under his leadership, RR reached the IPL 2022 final, their first since 2008, proving that he could take the team deep into the tournament. Over the years, Samson has become more than just a player; he has become the face of the franchise.

Notably, Samson has scored over 4000 runs for RR, including 25 half-centuries and a highest score of 124. As a wicketkeeper, he has taken 149 catches, showing his all-round contribution to the team. 

Unfortunately, a mid-season injury in 2025 saw RR finish ninth, and it is believed that his absence played a major role in that decline. Now, with rumors of a trade, RR might lose not only their captain but also their most experienced and influential leader.

If Samson leaves, players like Yashasvi Jaiswal or Dhruv Jurel could be next in line for captaincy. While both are talented, neither has the same leadership experience or deep understanding of the team dynamics that Samson has developed over the years.

2. Breakage of Fan Base

Another big thing RR might miss is the massive fan following that Sanju Samson brings. Coming from Kerala, a state without its own IPL team, Samson has built a passionate fan base across the region. Many fans from Kerala support Rajasthan Royals mainly because of him.

Over the past 11 seasons, Samson has not only performed consistently but also created a special connection with fans. He has been loyal to RR through ups and downs, from their comeback after suspension in 2018 to leading them in recent seasons. His departure could lead to a major loss in fan engagement and support, especially from southern India.

If Samson joins CSK, a team that already has a huge fan base and a strong connection with South Indian audiences, many of his Kerala fans might shift their loyalty to the yellow army. This could hurt RR’s brand value and reduce the sense of identity and emotional bond the team has built with fans over the years.

3. Top-Order Stability

Rajasthan Royals’ batting has heavily depended on Sanju Samson in recent years. With Jos Buttler already released in the previous auction, RR struggled to find consistency at the top during IPL 2025. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who once formed strong partnerships with Buttler and Samson, couldn’t find his rhythm without them.

When Samson missed matches due to injury, the top order looked shaky and often collapsed early. Though young player Vaibhav Suryavanshi showed promise, the lineup clearly missed the experience and reliability that Samson provided.

If RR trades him now, they risk losing their most dependable top-order batter, someone who could anchor the innings, accelerate when needed, and finish games. Without him, RR might face a repeat of their 2025 struggles, where inconsistent starts cost them crucial matches.