IPL 2026 Trade Window: Did CSK Make a Big Mistake by Rejecting Sanju Samson

IPL 2026 Trade Window: As the buzz around the IPL 2026 mini auction grows, trade rumours have started to heat up and one name that’s dominating the headlines is Sanju Samson. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain, reportedly unhappy with his franchise, could be on the move. According to multiple reports, RR even offered Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja.

However, CSK reportedly turned down the proposal, choosing to hold on to their veteran all-rounder. While the deal may have seemed risky, many believe the decision could come back to haunt the Yellow Army. Let’s break down why.

Jadeja’s Form: Signs of Decline

Ravindra Jadeja has been one of CSK’s biggest match-winners over the years, a clutch finisher, a dependable bowler, and a livewire in the field. But at 36, age seems to be catching up with him.

In the IPL 2025 season, Jadeja played 14 matches, scoring 301 runs at a healthy strike rate of 135.59, but managed to take only 10 wickets. His bowling effectiveness has clearly dipped, and his power-hitting has been inconsistent.

Over the last two IPL seasons combined, Jadeja has taken only 18 wickets, adopting a more defensive style rather than being the attacking threat he once was.

Moreover, CSK retained him for a massive Rs 18 crore in the 2025 mega auction, a huge sum for a player nearing the twilight of his career. While his experience and leadership are invaluable, the question remains – Is CSK investing too heavily in sentiment rather than future value?

Why Sanju Samson Could’ve Been Perfect for CSK

If there’s one thing CSK will soon need, it’s a captaincy successor and a long-term wicketkeeping option after MS Dhoni. Sanju Samson checks both boxes and adds star quality at the top of the order.

Let’s look at his recent IPL numbers:

Despite missing half of IPL 2025 due to injury, Samson still managed nearly 300 runs. In 2024, he was among the top Indian batters of the season, scoring 531 runs with a strike rate above 150.

Samson’s calmness, composure, and ability to handle pressure make him a natural leader — qualities reminiscent of Dhoni himself. For CSK, he could have been the ideal choice to lead the next generation.

The Missed Opportunity

By rejecting the trade, CSK may have missed a golden chance to secure their future. Jadeja remains a valuable asset, but the franchise must think long-term. In contrast, Samson, at 31, is entering his peak years. He could have brought stability to CSK’s batting, leadership in the post-Dhoni era, and a fresh identity for the team.

It’s rare for a player like Samson, an Indian keeper-batter and captain to be available in the trade window. With RR reportedly open to letting him go, CSK’s reluctance to engage looks like a strategic blunder.

Final Verdict

While loyalty has always been CSK’s biggest strength, it might also be their biggest weakness this time. Ravindra Jadeja’s best IPL days could be behind him, and with no clear successor to Dhoni yet, the franchise may have passed on a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

Sanju Samson would have been the perfect fit, a proven leader, consistent run-scorer, and a long-term face for the franchise. By turning down the trade, CSK might have just created more problems for their future than they solved.

In the IPL, timing is everything and this might be one deal CSK regrets when the 2026 season begins.