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As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 trading window opens amid intense speculation, former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has shed light on which franchises might eye Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson if he gets released. Samson, who has reportedly asked RR for his release ahead of the auction, has attracted interest from several teams looking to reshape their lineups. Chopra highlighted 3 major IPL franchises as prime contenders to acquire Samson, envisioning strategic moves that could influence IPL’s team dynamics in the upcoming seasons.
Chennai Super Kings close to sign in Sanju Samson for IPL 2026
According to reports including Cricbuzz and statements from Chopra, Samson’s most probable new home could be the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Chopra expressed on his YouTube channel that CSK will be keen to look beyond MS Dhoni, whose future playing status remains unclear. While CSK recruited Urvil Patel, Chopra emphasized that the team needs a high-profile player to fill the leadership and batting void that a post-Dhoni era would inevitably create. He suggested that Samson fits this bill perfectly, offering both batting firepower and skilled wicketkeeping.
Chopra also speculated that CSK might offer a trade deal involving Ravichandran Ashwin, who has prior ties with Rajasthan Royals. This trade could fulfill RR’s requirement for a spinner while CSK secures their potential Dhoni successor.
He remarked, “They can release Ashwin. It could be Ashwin plus some money because Rajasthan need a spinner. Ashwin has played there earlier too.” Though Chopra briefly mentioned Ravindra Jadeja as another potential offer from CSK, he doubted RR would let him go.
The scenario places CSK as the second most interested franchise, just behind Kolkata Knight Riders. Moreover, Chopra sees CSK’s strong motivation to safeguard their legacy by investing in an experienced and recognizable Indian player like Samson who can carry Dhoni’s legacy forward.
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Two other franchises beyond the usual suspects according to Aakash Chopra
Chopra identifies KKR as the most eager franchise to sign Samson, noting that KKR’s current Indian wicketkeeper-batter options are limited. Chopra suggested KKR could release Venkatesh Iyer, freeing up a significant salary cap to accommodate Samson’s acquisition. This move could benefit KKR’s batting lineup, which has faced consistency issues, and potentially bring Samson into a leadership role. Chopra acknowledged Ajinkya Rahane’s efforts but indicated that a captain with Samson’s potential could transform the team’s fortunes.
Interestingly, Mumbai Indians (MI) also feature as a shrewd outsider keen on Samson. Chopra explained that MI’s Ryan Rickelton is an overseas player, and Jonny Bairstow, who opened after the mid-season break, is likely to be released. With Rohit Sharma possibly nearing IPL retirement, MI will require a strong opening batter and experienced player, roles Samson could fulfill effectively. Chopra said, “If you get Sanju, suddenly, you can change the dynamics a bit more,” making MI a potential third destination.
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