3 strong reasons Sanju Samson should stay with Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026

In a major development ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson has reportedly shown interest in leaving the franchise. This news has sparked plenty of buzz among fans and insiders as the tournament approaches.

As per a report by ESPNcricinfo, the 30-year-old wicketkeeper-batter communicated his decision to the RR management shortly after IPL 2025 ended. The reasons behind his wish to part ways are not yet fully clear but are believed to be linked to team dynamics and future plans.

Sanju Samson has played a crucial role for Rajasthan Royals, consistently leading the team with strong performances in recent years. If he moves on, it would mark the end of a significant chapter for both the player and the franchise, potentially opening doors for new leadership and change in team strategy going into the next season.

See Also: Star player requests CSK to release him ahead of IPL 2026

Sanju Samson Mightn’t Play for RR in IPL 2026:

Rajasthan Royals had a tough outing in the 2025 IPL season, ending ninth on the points table. Their campaign was further hampered by Sanju Samson’s injuries. He struggled with a finger problem and later missed five matches due to a side strain. Overall, he played only nine games, with Riyan Parag stepping in as captain during his absence.

With speculation around Samson’s possible exit, the Royals face a key decision. If they choose to part ways with their long-time captain, they have two options: trade him to another team or release him into the auction pool. As per IPL rules, the final decision rests entirely with the franchise.

A trade could happen through a player swap or a complete cash deal. The Royals have until November, which is the IPL 2026 retention deadline, to finalize their call on Samson’s future. His departure could lead to a major shift in team plans.

Why Sanju Should Play for RR in IPL 2026?

With speculation growing about Sanju Samson’s desire to leave Rajasthan Royals, it’s worth exploring why staying could still be the right choice for him. Here are three strong reasons why Sanju should continue with the Royals in the upcoming IPL season.

#1 Chance to create a long-term legacy and guide Rajasthan Royals to a second IPL victory

Rajasthan Royals made a dream start to their IPL journey by winning the very first title in 2008 under the iconic leadership of Shane Warne. Since then, the team has gone through 17 seasons without adding another trophy to their cabinet.

Their closest chance came in 2022 when they reached the final under Sanju Samson but fell short against Gujarat Titans. Samson, who took over the captaincy in 2021, has led the team in 67 matches so far. His captaincy record stands evenly with 33 wins, 33 losses, and one match ending with no result.

With a chance to create a lasting legacy, it’s important for Sanju Samson to continue his journey with Rajasthan Royals and aim for that long-awaited second title. Although reports indicate that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are interested in signing him, he wouldn’t be captain there, as Ruturaj Gaikwad currently leads the side.

While Samson’s batting could shine with any franchise, the role of a leader and the chance to build something special might not come as easily elsewhere. Rajasthan Royals have trusted him with responsibility, helping him grow and inspire the team. Leaving now could mean stepping away from a journey still in progress.

#2 Staying True to the Team That Gave Him His First Big Break

Sanju Samson's IPL career began in 2012 with Kolkata Knight Riders, although he didn’t get a chance to play and was released before the 2013 season. In 2013, Rajasthan Royals signed him, and that’s where he made his debut. He stayed with the Royals until 2015, then played for Delhi Daredevils in 2016 and 2017. 

Samson rejoined the Royals in 2018 and has since become a key figure in the team, contributing both with the bat and as a leader. His long association with RR reflects his value and growth within the franchise over the years.

Sanju Samson has played 149 matches for Rajasthan Royals, scoring 4,027 runs at an average of 31.71. His impressive stats include 23 fifties and two centuries. Since the beginning of his IPL journey, the Royals have shown strong support for Samson, standing by him through highs and lows. 

With years of trust and backing from the team, this could be the ideal moment for the Kerala batter to show his loyalty and lead the franchise forward, helping them chase their second IPL title and continuing the partnership that shaped his career.

#3 Sanju Samson is the Central Figure Around Whom Rajasthan Royals Have Shaped Their Team

Before the IPL 2025 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals reorganize their team with Rahul Dravid returning as head coach. They kept six important players: Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal at ₹18 crore each, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel at ₹14 crore each, Shimron Hetmyer at ₹11 crore, and Sandeep Sharma at ₹4 crore.

Rajasthan Royals took daring steps by letting go of notable players such as Jos Buttler, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Yuzvendra Chahal. They kept Sanju Samson as captain and brought in new batsmen such as Nitish Rana and Vaibhav Suryavanshi to strengthen the lineup. However, despite these changes, the team struggled and finished ninth in the season.

Sanju Samson is central to the team’s plans and is contractually bound to Rajasthan Royals through the 2027 IPL season. Given the franchise’s faith in his leadership and the way the squad is built around him, Samson should continue with the Royals and concentrate on leading the team back to success and reclaiming their former glory.