Rajasthan Royals owner Manoj Badale stated that Sanju Samson asked for a trade to CSK following the team's 'worst season in 18 years', marking the end of his IPL journey with RR.

Divy Dubey

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‘End of his IPL journey’ — RR owner Manoj Badale reveals why Sanju Samson requested a trade to CSK after Rajasthan Royals’ 'worst season in 18 years' image

TL;DR

  • Sanju Samson requested a trade from Rajasthan Royals to Chennai Super Kings due to mental exhaustion after their worst season.
  • Owner Manoj Badale confirmed Samson felt drained and sought a fresh start after 14 years with RR.
  • The trade also involved Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran moving to Rajasthan Royals.
  • Samson expressed his commitment to RR but felt it was time for a change.

Sanju Samson's move to Chennai Super Kings represented one of the most substantial moves before IPL 2026, concluding his extensive and distinguished tenure with Rajasthan Royals. This exchange, which also saw Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran join RR, signified the end of a notable period for Both Samson and RR.

The agreement was finalized on the day contracts were due for retention, but discussions preceding it commenced considerably sooner. The team has now clarified the process of this request, providing insight into a prominent off-season narrative.

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Following RR's challenging 2025 season, Sanju Samson has submitted a trade request.

Manoj Badale, owner of the RR franchise, stated in a video that Samson requested to depart near the conclusion of the 2025 season. Badale mentioned that the wicket-keeper batter felt mentally and emotionally exhausted following a year that he characterized as the team's "worst season in 18 years."

More: How much has Sanju Samson earned in IPL over the years and how much will CSK pay him in IPL 2026?

Samson initially suggested parting ways with the franchise during a conversation in Kolkata towards the end of the season, according to Badale. He further noted that Samson's significant investment in the franchise, coupled with the challenging season, had evidently affected him.

"The first time this year or in the past year that Sanju talked about moving on was probably in Kolkata towards the end of the season.. He was personally, emotionally drained," Badale said in the video.

More: Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025: India's complete match schedule for the T20 tournament.

Samson's rationale for departing the Rajasthan Royals

Badale stated that Samson had dedicated almost his entire IPL tenure to RR and felt it was appropriate for a fresh start. The owner commended Samson's earnestness and devotion, noting that his plea was significant due to its genuine nature.

"He just felt that, having given the best part of 14 years with a break to RR, he wanted a new chapter to refresh the end of his journey with the IPL," Badale said.

Following his move to CSK, Samson posted on Instagram, stating he'd committed his all to RR but believed it was the opportune time for a change.

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Contributing Writer