New Delhi: India’s wicketkeeper-batter and Kerala native Sanju Samson is reportedly preparing to part ways with Rajasthan Royals ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. A national media outlet has reported that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are actively seeking to bring the player into their squad before the next season begins.

Sanju Samson first joined Rajasthan Royals in 2013 and has been a vital part of the franchise over the years. With legendary captain MS Dhoni now in the twilight of his IPL career, questions loom over how long he will continue with Chennai. As the team begins looking to the future, they are said to be considering Samson as a long-term wicketkeeping replacement.

According to reports, CSK are planning to secure Samson ahead of the 2026 mini-auction. If an early transfer does not materialise, the franchise is expected to aggressively bid for him in the auction. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are also reportedly in the race to sign the Kerala cricketer, setting the stage for a possible bidding war.

During a brief suspension faced by Rajasthan Royals, Samson played for Delhi. He returned to Rajasthan in 2018, and in 2021, he was named team captain. Under his leadership, the franchise reached the IPL final the following season.

However, the 2025 IPL season was disappointing for Rajasthan, as they failed to qualify for the playoffs and finished ninth on the table. Samson himself missed several matches due to injury, with Riyan Parag stepping in as captain. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who replaced Samson, impressed with his form and was one of the few positives in an otherwise lacklustre season.

Chennai Super Kings, too, had a dismal campaign, winning only four of their 14 group-stage matches and becoming the first team to be eliminated from playoff contention. The five-time champions ended the season at the bottom of the standings.