As the dust settled on the IPL 2025 season, speculation began swirling around a potential blockbuster trade that could have reshaped two major IPL franchises. Social media was abuzz with rumors that Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) captain and star wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, might be headed to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as a long-term successor to MS Dhoni. However, recent reports have firmly dismissed these claims, making it clear that Samson is going nowhere — at least for now.
CSK’s Hunt for a Dhoni Successor
With MS Dhoni’s illustrious playing career nearing its inevitable conclusion, CSK is expected to begin preparing for life beyond the iconic No. 7. Among the names floated as a potential replacement, Sanju Samson stood out as a promising candidate — a seasoned IPL performer with leadership experience, wicketkeeping skills, and a composed temperament.
Given his resume — over 4700 IPL runs, three centuries, and proven leadership qualities — the 30-year-old was seen by many as a natural fit to take over CSK’s reins. His aggressive yet composed style and adaptability in the batting order made him an attractive prospect for the five-time champions.
RR Shut the Door: “Undisputed Captain”
However, fans hoping for this high-profile move were met with disappointment. According to a report from The Times of India, Rajasthan Royals have no plans to trade Samson or any other key player.
“RR have decided not to trade Samson or any of their players for now. Samson is very much a part of the Royals set-up and the undisputed captain of the team,” a source close to the franchise revealed.
This confirmation underscores the faith that the Royals have in Samson’s leadership. Having been with the franchise through highs and lows, including injury setbacks and inconsistent campaigns, Samson has remained the face of the team.
Injury-Plagued 2025 Season
Samson’s 2025 IPL season was curtailed by an index finger injury, limiting him to just 9 matches in which he scored 285 runs at a strike rate of 140.39. In his absence, Riyan Parag stepped in as the stand-in captain, but the team clearly views Samson as their long-term leader.
Despite the truncated season, Samson’s influence on and off the field remains unquestioned, and his bond with the Royals runs deep. He first joined the side over a decade ago and has since become their most prominent figure.
A History with KKR and CSK Links
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Samson’s name has been floated in transfer rumors. He was originally signed by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2012 but was never given a game and eventually released. The rumours this year also included a potential KKR comeback, but those, too, seem unfounded as of now.
What This Means for CSK
With RR closing the door on any potential Samson transfer, CSK’s quest for a Dhoni successor remains unresolved. The franchise must now look elsewhere — either groom someone internally like Ruturaj Gaikwad, explore other established Indian talents, or look overseas for leadership and wicketkeeping options.
What’s clear is that Sanju Samson remains the heart of Rajasthan Royals, and for now, any thoughts of seeing him in the yellow of CSK can be put to rest.
