The IPL 2026 trade window has already thrown up its share of speculation, and the latest revolves around Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson. As per emerging reports, Samson has asked RR to release him ahead of the next auction – a move that could trigger one of the biggest trades in recent years.
Former India cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra believes that if the Royals do part ways with their long-serving captain, the Kolkata Knight Riders might be the most eager to secure his services. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted how KKR’s current setup leaves them vulnerable without a recognised Indian wicketkeeper-batter, and how Samson could be the perfect fit – both as a player and as a leader.
Why KKR Could Go All In
“The first name that comes to my mind is not CSK. KKR should be the most desperate team,” Chopra said. “They don’t have an Indian wicketkeeper-batter, and that just ties their hands behind their back. Secondly, what’s wrong if you get a captain?”
Chopra noted that while Ajinkya Rahane led KKR commendably in IPL 2025, his role in the batting order remains tricky. He suggested that the franchise could make space for Samson financially by releasing Venkatesh Iyer, which would free up close to Rs 24 crore in their purse.
Why Would Samson Want to Leave?
Samson’s association with RR goes back to his IPL debut in 2013. The only seasons he didn’t feature for the Jaipur-based side were in 2016 and 2017 when the team was serving a suspension. In recent years, the franchise backed him heavily even letting go of Jos Buttler before IPL 2025, a move many felt was made to allow Samson to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
This makes the current situation puzzling. “Why would Sanju Samson want to leave?” Chopra wondered aloud. He suggested that the emergence of youngster Vaibhav Suryavanshi as Jaiswal’s opening partner, along with the team’s interest in promoting Dhruv Jurel up the order, could be factors influencing Samson’s decision.
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The Trade Equation
One complication for any potential suitor is RR’s stance on Samson’s exit. Reports suggest the Royals are unwilling to part with him in an all-cash deal. Instead, they are seeking a like-for-like replacement – a demand that could narrow down the pool of interested teams considerably.
If KKR are serious about bringing Samson on board, they may need to part with a significant player in return, in addition to managing the financial aspect of the trade. Given Samson’s ability to anchor an innings, accelerate when needed, and handle leadership duties, the stakes and the asking price will be high.
A Defining Move in the Trade Window?
The IPL 2026 trade window has just started heating up, and Samson’s future could be one of its defining stories. For KKR, he represents a solution to two long-standing gaps: an Indian wicketkeeper-batter and a stable captain. For RR, losing him would mean a reshuffle at the top and in their leadership group – unless they find the right swap.
Whether this ends in a blockbuster trade or fizzles into a non-story, one thing is certain – Sanju Samson’s name will dominate the trade window chatter in the weeks to come.
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