IPL 2026: CSK restart Sanju Samson trade talks with RR, Shivam Dube off the table

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have rejoined the Sanju Samson trade discussions. The wicketkeeper has formally requested the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to be released prior to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction. In fact, CSK was the first franchise that showed interest but reportedly pulled out.

CSK rejoins Samson trade race

Last week, we heard that the Delhi Capitals (DC) were in discussion with RR about Samson. The wicketkeeper had played for Delhi back in 2016 and 2017. Back then, it was known as the Daredevils. RR had reportedly asked for South African batter Tristan Stubbs and another uncapped Indian player for Samson.

DC hadn’t yet replied to RR about the matter. And in between all of this, CSK might have rejoined the Samson trade race. According to Cricbuzz, RR lead owner Manoj Badale has written to multiple franchises about a potential trade and will spearhead the negotiations personally.

No Dube for Samson, CSK tells RR

He’s asked for specific players in return for Samson. As mentioned above, Stubbs’ name came up with DC. While for CSK, RR had already asked for one of Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Shivam Dube.

CSK has already shot down the Dube trade request. While the 5-time champions are reluctant to release any of their big names, the all-rounder is the biggest dealbreaker. He’s the only player among the three who plays T20Is regularly and can be an asset for the next 5 years.

Badale would try to get Jadeja or Gaikwad, but the former has been with CSK since 2012, and the latter is their captain.

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