As the IPL 2026 retention deadline draws near, the rumoured swap deal between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals — involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson, has become one of the most talked-about stories in franchise cricket.
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The move, if completed, could reshape both teams before the mini-auction in December. However, beyond the trade itself, one major question has caught fans' attention — whether Samson will lead the five-time IPL champions if he joins CSK?
R Ashwin says Samson unlikely to captain CSK in IPL 2026
Former India off-spinner R Ashwin doesn't think Samson will be handed the captaincy immediately, even if the trade with Rajasthan is completed. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said CSK are likely to stick with Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain for the 2026 season.
"I don't think Sanju Samson will get captaincy because this is his first season. And giving someone captaincy in his first year at the franchise, I am not sure about it. Ruturaj will continue. But Samson will definitely be an option going forward to the future, if the deal happens," Ashwin said.
Ashwin also said that Jadeja's move to Rajasthan would be a major boost for RR, calling him one of the best finishers in the league.
He explained that Jadeja's presence could ease the pressure on Shimron Hetmyer and allow young batters like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, and Riyan Parag to play more freely.
Will Sanju Samson captain CSK if Ravindra Jadeja joins RR in IPL 2026 trade swap?
From a leadership perspective, Ashwin's take aligns with how CSK traditionally operates — they prefer continuity and steady transitions. With MS Dhoni nearing the end of his career, Gaikwad has already been groomed as the next long-term captain.
Even if Samson arrives, he is expected to strengthen the top order and add experience, not take over captaincy immediately.
However, Samson's temperament and proven IPL leadership record could make him a natural contender in the coming years, especially if CSK sees him as a future captain.
For now, though, the franchise's focus remains on finalising the Jadeja-Samson trade before the November 15 retention deadline.
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