The day is finally here that the Chennai Super Kings fans were eagerly looking forward to, as the five-time Indian Premier League champions finally announced the arrival of India international wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals.
After months of speculation about Samson's future and his next destination, it has finally been revealed that the wicket-keeper batter will don Chennai's yellow shirt from the IPL 2026 season.
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It was first reported a couple of months back that Samson is eyeing a move away from RR after spending 10 seasons over two stints in the Pink City of Jaipur. The 31-year-old had accordingly informed the RR management of his desire to leave the team.
Samson was soon linked with a move to several franchise's including Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals, alongside CSK. However, he eventually opted to link up with his idol MS Dhoni in Chennai.
READ: CSK retention list for IPL 2026 auction
What did Chennai Super Kings say after signing Sanju Samson?
Chennai Super Kings announced they have traded in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran ahead on Saturday morning.
CSK Managing Director, KS Viswanathan, said in the statement: "A transition in a team's journey is never easy. Trading out a player like Ravindra Jadeja, who has been an integral part of the franchise for more than a decade, and Sam Curran was one of the toughest decisions we have taken in the team's history."
"The decision was taken with mutual understanding with both Jadeja and Curran. We are deeply grateful for Jadeja's extraordinary contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. We wish both Jadeja and Curran the best for the future.
"We also welcome Sanju Samson, whose skill-set and achievements complement our ambitions. This decision has been made with great thought, respect, and a long-term vision," the statement read.
Meanwhile, CSK also shared a special tribute for fan favourite Jadeja following his departure from the franchise with phrases like "Sword that guarded the Yellove Kingdom" and "Always our Thalapathy. Always our Jaddu."
The Sword that guarded the Yellove kingdom.
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) November 15, 2025
There are players
and there are protectors.
He was both.
Today, we bow in gratitude.
For the finishes.
For the breakthrough spells.
Always our RaJa.
Always our Thalapathy.
Always our Jaddu!#WhistlePodu #ThalapathyForever pic.twitter.com/tzOLpvBqyF
RR reaction to Sanju Samson leaving franchise after nearly a decade
Rajasthan Royals thanked Samson with a tribute as RR players shared their memories with the former skipper.
It was an honor being a part of your journey, Sanju 💗 pic.twitter.com/zWvoIgWbhK
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 15, 2025
Sanju Samson's journey in IPL
| M | R | H.S | Avg. | S/R | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 177 | 4704 | 119 | 30.95 | 139.05 | 2 | 26 | 379 | 219 |
RELATED LINKS:
- Full list of player trades and cash deals ahead of IPL 2026 mini auction
- RR retention list for IPL 2026 auction
- All IPL-related news
- All the latest cricket news