Sanju Samson has been one of the most consistent and stylish batters in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the past decade, earning a reputation as a dependable captain and a key match-winner for the Rajasthan Royals (RR).
As the IPL 2026 season (and the expected date for the mini-auction) approaches, fans are speculating about his future - will Samson remain with RR to continue his captaincy journey, or could we see him in the yellow jersey of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)?
His retention price, 2025 salary, and possible auction dynamics have become hot topics among cricket followers and IPL analysts. This article will break down the latest updates on his IPL 2026 team, salary details, retention status, and captaincy prospects to give you a complete picture of where Sanju Samson might play next season.
Sanju Samson Team for IPL 2026
Sanju Samson's team in IPL 2026 is still uncertain as of now. Chennai Super Kings showed interest in acquiring him, but trade talks between RR and CSK reportedly did not materialise. Other franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have also shown interest in him.
Is Sanju Samson Leaving Rajasthan Royals (RR)?
Sanju Samson is highly likely to be leaving Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Reports indicate that he is at the top of RR's release list for the upcoming mini-auction. Although trade talks with Chennai Super Kings surfaced earlier, they did not materialise mainly because CSK was reluctant to trade players.
Samson has reportedly asked the Royals' management to be released or traded, citing differences with the team management and his desire for a fresh start at a bigger franchise. Other teams like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Delhi Capitals (DC) have also shown interest in signing him.
Retained Price of Sanju Samson in IPL 2025
Sanju Samson was retained by Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2025 season at a retained price of ₹18 crore (approximately $2.14 million).
Salary of Sanju Samson in IPL 2025
Sanju Samson's salary in IPL 2025 while playing for Rajasthan Royals was ₹18 crore (approximately $2.14 million). This made him one of the highest-paid players in the IPL that season.
Which Team will buy Sanju Samson in the IPL Auction?
Sanju Samson is expected to enter the IPL 2026 auction as Rajasthan Royals are likely to release him ahead of the mini-auction scheduled for mid-December 2025.
Although trade talks with Chennai Super Kings and other franchises like Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders surfaced, no confirmed swap deal is in place yet.
This leaves Samson open to be picked by any franchise during the auction, with several top teams reportedly interested in acquiring the talented wicketkeeper-batsman.
Who Will Be the Captain of RR in 2026?
The captain of Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026 is expected to be Yashasvi Jaiswal. With Sanju Samson's exit from the team almost confirmed, the franchise has reportedly promised the captaincy to Jaiswal, although he may have to wait for a season before officially taking over the role.
Meanwhile, Riyan Parag may also get a chance to lead the team as RR decides on the best leadership direction following a major squad rebuild.