Sanju Samson has ignited IPL's wildest pre-auction saga, after expressing his desire to leave Rajasthan Royals ahead of the Indian Premier League 2025. With the November 15 deadline looming, Samson’s explosive batting, captaincy pedigree, and Indian core status make him the hottest property in the league, and teams are leaving no stone unturned to acquire him.

Ever since Sanju Samson confirmed his departure from Rajasthan Royals, all major teams are on the move, hoping to acquire the veteran batter ahead of the IPL 2026.

Delhi Capitals had already agreed to swap Tristan Stubbs for Samson, only for RR to demand uncapped big-hitter Sameer Rizvi as well – a demand that killed the deal and left Delhi heartbroken, proving Samson’s market value exceeds even top overseas talent. 

CSK has been negotiating for five months to bring Samson to Chepauk explicitly as the long-term replacement for 44-year-old Dhoni; the franchise is even willing to trade cult hero Ravindra Jadeja to seal the deal before the Nov 15 retention deadline.

Negotiations with Chennai have reportedly reached their final stage. Rajasthan are seeking Matheesha Pathirana alongside Jadeja in exchange, while CSK has countered by offering Sam Curran instead

With less than 5 days left until the retention/trade window shuts on November 15, Samson holds all the cards; his firm desire to leave RR will force the franchise to soften their stance and accept the deal