The veteran wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, who has been the face of the Rajasthan Royals for a long time, could be leaving the franchise before the 2026 IPL season. According to various reports, Samson is at the top of the list to be transferred to Chennai Super Kings on an all-cash basis, which will see both franchises make a major change in their strategies.
Rajasthan Royals had a forgettable season in 2025, getting only four wins from 14 and ending up ninth in the points table. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and new recruit Vaibhav Suryavanshi provided good starts to the team, but Samson’s inconsistent performance and periodic fitness concerns might have prompted the Royals to look elsewhere. The skipper could score only 285 runs in nine games, a return that was disappointing.
If the deal goes through, Rajasthan Royals will be looking for an experienced keeper-batter who could also double up as a leadership pick. Following are three players who could replace him if they make a bid through trade transactions or the mini-auction due next year:
Ishan Kishan
Ishan Kishan was signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad during the 2025 mega auction in a lot of fanfare, but his output was inconsistent throughout the season. Although he played a couple of barn-storming innings – most prominently versus Rajasthan Royals and RCB, he failed to build momentum, and that increased speculation that SRH would release him.
Why He Fits RR
Kishan’s big-hitting nature makes him an ideal candidate for the Royals’ opening order. With Jaiswal and Suryavanshi already set to open, Ishan would fit seamlessly at No. 3, giving a left-right combination and ensuring that the pressure on opposing bowlers does not ease. Apart from his on-field utility, Kishan’s marketability would help replace the missing gap created by Samson, both in terms of branding and fan-connectivity.
Rishabh Pant
Most expensive IPL 2025 auction purchase was Rishabh Pant, with Lucknow Super Giants splurging on the pyrotechnic southpaw. Pant struggled, making only 269 runs at a modest average of 24.45 and strike rate of 133.17. His inability to perform under pressure has sparked speculation that LSG will release him to make room.
Why He Fits RR
Rajasthan would gain by introducing Pant at No. 3 his preferred slot, where he would be able to set the pace for the innings and add solidity to the middle order. Additionally, if Samson gets out, RR will sorely lack a leader. Pant, who guided a weak LSG team to six victories, may be considered a natural choice and an experienced one at only 28 years old.
Quinton de Kock
Seasoned South African wicket-keeper batter Quinton de Kock had a woeful season with Kolkata Knight Riders, managing a mere 152 runs at 21.71 average. With his lackluster performance adding to KKR’s defeat, the 2024 winners might let him go before the 2026 season.
Why He Fits RR
Even after a disastrous IPL performance, De Kock is still a world-class player. He displayed indications of getting back to his best in the MLC 2025, where he smashed 373 runs at an aggressive strike rate of 142.91 with four half-centuries. With his probable decrease in price, he might be a shrewd, cost-effective acquisition for the Royals, enabling them to splurge on other areas of importance such as death bowling and finishing strength.
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