Is Sanju Samson On The CSK Move? Here’s How The Trading Process Works News24 –

The Indian Premier League has never been short on drama, but in recent years, the off-season has become almost as fascinating as the on-field action. Much of that intrigue now comes from the IPL trade window – a system that’s been around since 2009 but has only recently started making headlines.

The perfect example came two years ago when Hardik Pandya made a sensational return to Mumbai Indians from Gujarat Titans in what was arguably the most high-profile switch in IPL history. Suddenly, the trade window wasn’t just background noise – it became the talk of the cricketing world.

Now, as we look ahead to IPL 2026, all eyes are on Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals’ long-serving captain, who is reportedly open to exploring a move away. The whispers of Chennai Super Kings’ interest in him have only added fuel to what could become this season’s biggest storyline.

How an IPL Trade Works

Think of it like a football transfer. If Samson were to leave Rajasthan Royals for Chennai Super Kings, CSK would have to pay RR a transfer fee. In this case, Samson’s salary of Rs 18 crore with RR would be freed from their auction purse and transferred to CSK’s books. His contract terms – salary, tenure, perks – would remain the same with CSK.

Interestingly, unlike the auction purse which is equal for all franchises, transfer fees have no cap. This means that a wealthier franchise can flex its financial muscle and tempt a rival by offering huge sums off the books. These numbers are rarely disclosed, which only adds to the speculation.

There’s also the option of player exchanges. CSK, for instance, could offer two of its players to RR in return for Samson, with any price difference settled in cash.

Why Samson’s Case Is Different

Samson isn’t just another player. He’s been the face of Rajasthan Royals for years, their captain and their most consistent performer. For fans in Kerala, he’s a symbol of pride; for RR, he’s been the heartbeat of their batting order.

But there’s also a feeling that the time might be right for a change. RR have flattered to deceive in recent seasons, and with Samson reportedly open to a move, CSK looks like the perfect suitor. The franchise will soon be in transition as they plan for life after MS Dhoni. And who better to step in as a marquee leader than Samson – a stylish batter, experienced captain, and someone who commands immense fan loyalty?

The Trade Window Timeline

The IPL trade window has its own rhythm:

Opens one month after the season ends (this year, July 3).

Remains open until a week before the auction.

Resumes after the auction and stays open until a month before the new season begins.

That means there’s a wide window for negotiations, rumors, and last-minute surprises. Importantly, players bought at the auction cannot be traded immediately – only those already part of squads before the auction are eligible.

Who Has the Final Say?

Here’s where it gets tricky. Even if CSK and RR were to agree on a trade, the final call rests with the franchise holding the player. So if Samson decides he wants a new challenge but RR refuse to part ways, he may have no choice but to stay put.

However, in today’s IPL, player preferences carry more weight than before. Hardik Pandya’s switch proved that when a player expresses a strong desire, franchises usually listen – provided the right deal is on the table.

Could This Be the Trade of the Season?

If Sanju Samson does move to CSK, it won’t just be another headline – it could reshape the dynamics of the league. For CSK, it would mean securing a leader for the post-Dhoni era. For RR, it would mean losing their talisman but gaining resources to rebuild.

Either way, one thing is certain: as the IPL 2026 trade window heats up, Sanju Samson’s future will be the most closely watched saga of them all.