IPL 2026: Sanju Samson to CSK? Robin Uthappa Suggests Two More Players in Blockbuster RR Trade Deal: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 may still be months away, but the pre-season trade window is already buzzing with blockbuster rumours.
One of the most talked-about developments is the potential trade of Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
If the deal goes through, it could become one of the biggest trades in IPL history — not just because of Samson’s talent, but also because of the players that might move the other way.
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Sanju Samson’s Future in Question
According to multiple reports, Sanju Samson has requested his release from Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026.
The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has been the backbone of RR’s batting for several years, but a change of scenery seems to be on the cards.
Chennai Super Kings, known for their strategic player moves and long-term planning, are reportedly keen to bring Samson on board.
With MS Dhoni nearing the twilight of his career, CSK’s management appears to be preparing for the future — and Samson could be the perfect successor behind the stumps.
Ravichandran Ashwin in the Trade Equation
One of the key names linked to the potential deal is veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.
A former CSK star, Ashwin has been with RR in recent seasons but could be set for another switch if the trade materializes.
His experience and leadership could be valuable for CSK’s spin attack, especially on Chennai’s turning tracks.
However, the reports suggest that Ashwin alone might not be enough for RR to part ways with their captain. The Royals are reportedly looking for additional assets in return.
Robin Uthappa’s Player Suggestions
Former India batter and IPL veteran Robin Uthappa has now added fuel to the speculation. On his YouTube channel, Uthappa claimed that RR will be looking to strengthen their lower middle order if they trade Samson.
“They only have Shimron Hetmyer as a finisher. They don’t have a proper number six or seven who can close games. Maybe Sam Curran. Vijay Shankar could also be an option along with Ashwin,” Uthappa said.
Uthappa’s suggestion makes sense from a team balance perspective. Sam Curran, a dynamic all-rounder, is capable of finishing innings with both bat and ball.
Vijay Shankar, on the other hand, is a versatile middle-order batter who can chip in with useful overs — though CSK haven’t fully utilized his abilities in recent seasons.
Why Sanju Samson Fits CSK’s Future Plans
The prospect of Sanju Samson joining CSK goes beyond just adding firepower to their batting.
For years, CSK have relied on MS Dhoni not just as a wicketkeeper but as their tactical leader and match finisher.
While Dhoni’s future beyond IPL 2026 is uncertain, the franchise is keen on ensuring a smooth leadership and wicketkeeping transition.
Uthappa believes Samson’s arrival would address that concern instantly.
“If CSK are able to get him, it will be a smooth shift from Dhoni to the next wicketkeeper. Otherwise, they might have to look at Devon Conway as a keeping option, which isn’t ideal. With Samson, the role is naturally taken care of,” Uthappa explained.
The Business Side of the Deal
While fans are excited, such trades are never straightforward. A player of Sanju Samson’s calibre would command a hefty price in the IPL trade market.
CSK would have to offer a combination of star players, promising talents, or future auction considerations to make RR agree.
From RR’s perspective, losing Samson means they’d need to re-structure their leadership group and batting core.
However, acquiring an elite finisher like Curran or a proven IPL performer like Shankar, alongside Ashwin’s bowling skills, could make the trade tempting.
What It Means for IPL 2026
If this trade happens, it could reshape both teams ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
- For CSK: It would secure a long-term wicketkeeping solution and bolster their batting depth.
- For RR: It could strengthen their lower middle order and provide more bowling options.
With Dhoni’s eventual retirement looming, CSK’s management has to make moves that ensure the team’s competitiveness in the post-Dhoni era.
Samson’s aggressive batting style, leadership qualities, and experience make him an ideal fit for the “Yellow Army”.
Final Thoughts
The IPL trade window has often seen surprising moves, but a Sanju Samson-to-CSK deal would be right up there with the biggest ever.
While nothing is official yet, the speculation alone has added an extra layer of excitement to the build-up for IPL 2026.
If Robin Uthappa’s predictions are accurate, we might witness a blockbuster swap — Samson to CSK, Ashwin and possibly Curran or Shankar to RR.
For now, all eyes remain on the negotiations table.
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