The IPL 2026 trade window came alive with speculative rumors surrounding one of the league’s biggest stars – Sanju Samson. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain, who has long been rumoured to join Chennai Super Kings (CSK), is now said to be attracting serious attention from an unexpected rival: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
KKR’s Bold Move for Samson
KKR is reportedly targeting Samson hard, as it seeks to rebuild its franchise after a dismal 2025 season in which they fell short of the playoffs. The franchise is eager to add strength to its Indian core, particularly after having issues with overseas wicketkeeping options last year.
The leadership vacuum – particularly after Shreyas Iyer’s exit has only increased KKR’s interest in an established Indian leader. The management views Samson as not just a reliable top-order batter but also as one who is capable of providing stability and guidance to the team.
In a discreet but revealing gesture, a KKR scout – who requested anonymity shared a cryptic Instagram story with the phrase, “Some memories are special!!” The post has sparked rumors that an imminent reunion or big transfer is on the cards, potentially signaling a powerful backroom drive for Samson.
Trade Window Heats Up
The IPL 2026 trade window, which opened towards the end of June and closes a week before the auction, has already witnessed a flurry of negotiations. Franchises can do player-for-player transactions or do deals with cash – although any transaction has to be cleared by all concerned, including the player.
Sanju Samson, who has been kept by RR for a huge Rs 18 crore prior to the 2025 mega auction, has become the focal point of this year’s trade gossip with lightning speed. CSK, long perceived as his destined suitor for his signature, sees him as the perfect heir to MS Dhoni, whose legendary career is closing in on its final act.
But KKR’s sudden interest has altered the balance of power, infusing a new dimension of urgency to what is turning out to be one of the most dramatic transfer melodramas in recent IPL history.
Rajasthan Royals Considering Options
The Rajasthan Royals have confirmed fielding several trade offers for Samson and other crucial players in their team. A call on taking any of them remains to be made.
Sources indicate that RR also had a high-ranking strategy session in London with high-ranking personnel such as head coach Rahul Dravid present to review trade offers and consider their roster in preparation for the 2026 season.
The final decision on Samson’s future would rest with RR’s leader owner, Manoj Badale, with the franchise approaching the make-or-break retention deadline.
While both CSK and KKR are in hot pursuit, and the Royals are still left wavering, the war for Sanju Samson is far from over. This much is certain: his next step could drastically alter the power equation of IPL 2026.
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