In what could turn out to be one of the most high-profile transfers in recent IPL history, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have shown clear interest in acquiring Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson. The buzz had been growing steadily on social media, but now it carries serious weight following confirmation from a senior CSK official, who told Cricbuzz that the franchise is “definitely looking at Sanju.”

The CSK official acknowledged that while there has been no formal approach made to the Royals, Samson’s qualities as a top-order batter, wicketkeeper, and an experienced Indian player make him an attractive proposition. “He is an Indian batter who is a keeper and an opener. So if he is available, we will certainly have a look at the option of having him in our fold,” the official stated, adding that any discussion around a trade counterpart was premature.

Strategic Fit and Potential Trade Conundrum

Samson, who has been part of the Royals' setup for over a decade and was their first retention at a premium price of ₹18 crore, would be a major acquisition for CSK. The five-time champions, now led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, may have to make a significant offer in return if a trade is to be realized. With head coach Stephen Fleming openly supporting his leadership, Gaikwad himself has the same retention value and is still selected as CSK's long-term captain.

Gaikwad's status and CSK's investment in his captaincy make a direct trade seem unlikely, but the team would still need to provide a desirable player or package in return. Historically, CSK has rarely indulged in trades, the last notable instance being the acquisition of Robin Uthappa from RR ahead of the 2021 season.

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Royals’ Position: Open to Offers, But Cautious

Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Royals completed a review of their underwhelming 2025 campaign, where they finished ninth during a recent meeting in London. New head coach Rahul Dravid was also in attendance. The franchise reportedly discussed trade inquiries not just for Samson but for up to six of their players.

A Royals source told PTI, “There have been multiple approaches by multiple franchises for about six of our players. Similarly, we have approached multiple franchises for multiple options.” However, no formal communication has been acknowledged, and lead owner Manoj Badale is expected to take the final call.

With Indian keeper-batters being one of the most sought-after assets in IPL squads, RR are sitting on a goldmine in the form of Samson and Dhruv Jurel, who also showed promise during the season. Any trade involving Samson will likely require a near-equal or greater value in return.

The Trade Window and Rules

The IPL's official trade window opened at 9:00 am IST on June 10, 2025, and will remain open until seven days before the 2026 auction. Trade negotiations must comply with several rules laid down by the BCCI:

• Players cannot be traded in the season immediately after being bought in an auction.
• A traded player may only be traded once per season.
• Trades involving overseas players require NOCs from relevant cricket boards.
• League fees are central to the trade, but player contracts cannot be altered beyond negotiated fee adjustments, which require BCCI approval.
• If a "negotiated increase" or "decrease" in league fees is reached, the purchasing and selling teams are required to split the associated costs.

Since the trading window is still open and franchises are actively seeking opportunities, everyone will be watching to see if CSK formally expresses interest in Samson. Given the complexity of the move and the player's stature, any possible trade would necessitate patience, cautious negotiation, and strategic foresight. Although it is still in the early phases of development, the potential Sanju Samson transfer to CSK has all the makings of one of the most intriguing offseason IPL moves.

The IPL 2025 season proved to be a forgettable one for Chennai Super Kings, with the five-time title winners finishing bottom of the table. CSK managed only 4 victories in 14 games and did not make it to the playoffs, showing neither consistency nor fire across departments. The franchise also failed to find the right combination under a new leadership era after MS Dhoni.

Though some young players and old-timers gave glimpses of promise, some members of the squad were woefully short. In the build-up to the IPL 2026 auction, a drastic overhaul is on the cards, and the following six players are expected to be released:

1. Rachin Ravindra

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra played 8 games, making 191 runs at an average of 27.29 and a strike rate of 128.19 with two half-centuries. He lacked consistency, though, and more often than not failed to make an impression from his starts. His left-arm spin was not properly utilized, having very little effect. With CSK looking for a more attacking and multi-faceted top-order player, Ravindra will probably be let go.

2. Sam Curran

Sam Curran featured in 5 matches, scoring 114 runs with an average of 22.80 and a strike rate of 135.71. With the ball, he scalped 5 wickets but conceded runs in plenty, ending with an economy of 11.08. He was bought by CSK in the IPL 2025 auction for INR 2.40 Cr. Even though he has had past CSK experiences, he did not contribute much in either form in 2025. As his price is high and he didn't yield much return, CSK might unload him to accommodate more effective overseas players.

3. Vijay Shankar

Vijay Shankar scored 118 runs from 5 games at an average of 39.33 and a strike rate of 129.67, including one half-century. He was acquired by CSK for ₹1.2 crore at the IPL 2025 auction. But his contribution did not have any match-winning value, and he wasn't given a chance to bowl. His existence as a reserve Indian all-rounder is redundant in CSK's new team dynamic. With younger options present, his chances of being retained are less.

4. Deepak Hooda

Deepak Hooda's season was not good, with just 31 runs in 6 games at a woeful average of 6.20 and a strike rate of 75.61. He was acquired by CSK at the 2025 IPL Auction for INR 1.7 crore. Despite being experimented with in the middle order, he couldn't push the game along or steady the ship in crisis situations. He did not get a bowl and exerted no impact in any match. With his form not being good and no single good performance, he is sure to be released.

See Also: Big Breaking! RCB list for player releasing out ahead of IPL 2026

5.  Jamie Overton

Jamie Overton was signed by CSK during the IPL 2025 auction. jamie Overton played only 2 matches in IPL 2025, conceding runs at a very high economy rate of 13.83 with the bat scoring 15 at a strike rate of 214.29. He was picked as a pace-bowling all-rounder but never earned the trust of the management for his services in the big matches. With so little contribution and overseas spots being precious, Overton is expected to be one of the first few to be let go of releases.

6. Rahul Tripathi

Rahul Tripathi was acquired by CSK for INR 3.40 crore at the 2025 IPL Auction. He played 5 games and managed just 55 runs at an average of 11.00 and a strike rate of 96.49. As brought in for adding depth to the top order, he could not get into rhythm or contribute at all. His failure put more pressure on a batting lineup already fragile. With form and confidence being lacking, his retention also looks extremely unlikely.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally ended the 17-year wait for an IPL title on Tuesday (June 3), making history at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad by beating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final of the IPL 2025. The win was a long-awaited breakthrough for the franchise, with several players coming on strong throughout the season.

But although the victory was theirs, not all members of their squad contributed meaningfully. Some players either did not convert their chances or did not even play, prompting very heavy speculation that RCB might let them go before the IPL 2026 auction, likely later this year or early next year.

1. Nuwan Thushara

Sri Lankan bowler Nuwan Thushara was retained for ₹1.5 crore in the 2025 IPL auction. He played only one match, against the Lucknow Super Giants, where he bowled tightly and took 1 wicket for 26 runs from his four-over spell. Although he performed well, Thushara was kept on the bench because of the availability of senior overseas pacers. RCB can consider releasing him to create space for more cricket-balanced bowling personnel.

2. Lungi Ngidi

Lungi Ngidi appeared in two games for RCB in IPL 2025 and took four wickets. But he leaked runs at a costly economy rate of 10.12 and was not available for the playoffs because of international commitments. Though his strike power is a plus point, his inconsistency and injury record are an area of concern. RCB might release him to accommodate more reliable overseas bowlers.

3. Blessing Muzarabani

Zimbabwean pacer Blessing Muzarabani played not a single match in IPL 2025 even after being in the squad. His function was to be a seamer on call, but he was never given the opportunity because of a settled bowling attack. With no contribution and with experience being limited for him in high-pressure leagues, the chances of his retention are bleak. RCB can release him to look for more energetic backup possibilities.

4. Rasikh Dar

J&K pacer Rasikh Dar was purchased at ₹6 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. He featured in two games—against KKR and GT—but didn't make a mark, taking just one wicket while giving away runs at a rate of more than 11 runs per over. After sitting out the remainder of the tournament, it was evident he wasn't part of RCB's major schemes. Given his hefty price tag, release now appears a certainty.

See Also: Big Breaking! CSK list for player releasing out ahead of IPL 2026

5. Swastik Chikara

Swastik Chikara sat on the bench for the entire duration of IPL 2025. The young left-hand hitter could not find a place in RCB's potent top and middle order, which included consistent performers. Having no match minutes and minimal contribution to the team dynamics, his retention does not make sense. RCB could let him go and sign a more experienced domestic player.

6. Swapnil Singh

Swapnil Singh, the veteran left-arm spinner, did not find a game in RCB's championship-winning 2025 season. Though his experience is worth the bench, the team banked more on all-rounders and aggressive spinners throughout the season. With fresh and younger spin talent rising, Swapnil's chances of being retained seem thin. He could be released prior to the next auction.

A large crowd of fans was recently seen assembling outside MS Dhoni’s farmhouse in Ranchi, days after the conclusion of IPL 2025. Dhoni, who has a great fan following throughout the country, made a short appearance, and it was enough to excite his fans. In some clips shared online, Dhoni was shown riding one of his miscellaneous superbikes, and he emerged from the fans.

Dressed in a black T-shirt, track pants, and a helmet, Dhoni, aged 43, rode a pink superbike as fans took the moment on their cellphones. The moment again brought out the popularity of Dhoni, particularly in his hometown of Ranchi, where fans tend to congregate outside his house expecting to catch a glimpse of cricketing legend Dhoni. The video of the bike ride went viral on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter).

Dhoni had last played on the cricket field during the IPL 2025 season when he was playing for the Chennai Super Kings. Midway through the season, Dhoni had to take over as the skipper due to Ruturaj Gaikwad being injured. The CSK had a poor season and finished in last position with a mere four wins and eight points.

Dhoni’s Future in IPL Remains Uncertain

Despite being retained for ₹4 crore in the uncapped player category prior to the IPL 2025 mega auction, Dhoni did not have an impressive season with the bat. He scored 196 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate of 135.17 and an average of 24.50. Since there has been no official word on him playing for IPL 2026, fans are left wondering if the Ranchi superstar will play one more season.

Watch the video here

Fans outside MS Dhoni's farmhouse on a normal day 😯🔥 pic.twitter.com/TgVpqedZyd

— ` (@WorshipDhoni) June 17, 2025

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Known as one of the most successful IPL captains, Dhoni has guided CSK to five IPL titles, the latest being in 2023. As his playing career inches towards a potential closure, instances such as these go on to show fans the affection and regard he still enjoys across the country.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been one of the most successful franchises in Indian Premier League (IPL) history. Now, they are in the spotlight with a well-thought-out strategy to help them regain their past dominance in IPL 2026. CSK has five IPL titles to its name and a passionate following. In IPL 2026, CSK will be led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, and there will be several changes to the squad and the roles of players. Here is an in-depth analysis of the franchise's bold roster for IPL 2026, probable recruitment of Sanju Samson, Gaikwad confirmed to be captain, MS Dhoni's future role, and agreement by Samson to be vice-captain. 

Sanju Samson Set to Join CSK

Sanju Samson's possible transfer from Rajasthan Royals to CSK is dominating the headlines. Driven by social media cues and insider reports, the deal seems more probable as CSK targets a dynamic middle-order batsman. With more than 4,000 IPL runs, Samson brings experience along with explosiveness.

His 285-run IPL 2025 season, even with injuries, maintained his worth. But RR's poor performance and change in leadership might have paved the way for this exchange. CSK supporters are already dreaming of Samson as the perfect No. 3 or opener, particularly with regional connect and his laid-back nature.

Ruturaj Gaikwad to Lead CSK in IPL 2026

Ruturaj Gaikwad will officially captain CSK in IPL 2026, even though he stepped in as captain in IPL 2024. With the runs he scored in IPL 2024 (583 runs) and a decent domestic record, it was an easy choice. Gaikwad will lead CSK with their complete faith, even though he missed parts of IPL 2025 because of injury in the 2025 season.

MS Dhoni publicly endorsing Gaikwad's leadership is key and a clear indication of an important support system. With previous captaining experience for Maharashtra and culminating in an Asian Games victory, Gaikwad is now ready to lead CSK into the future. He will be supported in the leadership group by veterans and emerging star players. 

MS Dhoni to Play but Not as Wicketkeeper

MS Dhoni will return to play for IPL 2026 for the first time, and for the first time not as wicketkeeper. At 43, managing his physical load is very important, and we suspect he has been experiencing knee issues in recent IPL seasons. After his massive contribution as a finisher over the years, he has been an important part of the team even this season as a mentor.

Dhoni's departure opens the possibility for a new keeper—and possibly Samson—to take the gloves. With 196 runs in IPL 2025 and a great tactical brain, he is still useful. For now, Dhoni's brand and influence may have shaped CSK's identity.

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Sanju Samson as Vice-Captain

reports indicate that Sanju Samson has been said to agree to be CSK's vice-captain for IPL 2026. His leadership experience with RR, including an IPL final in 2022, will be an asset to CSK's decision-making panel. Samson's temperament and adaptability are looked upon as ideal matches for Gaikwad.

This signing also points towards CSK's overall leadership plan—developing a solid, young core. With Dhoni and Jadeja covering their backs, the Gaikwad-Samson combination might decide CSK's destiny in the future. The stability this two-leadership duo presents already gets the fans excited.

CSK is evidently working towards equipping itself with a mix of veterans and youth. Having come last in 2025, the franchise is working to address critical holes—particularly in bat depth and leadership. Samson's addition and Gaikwad's captaincy are a sign of proactive rejigging. The foundation of Jadeja, Ashwin, and Noor Ahmad continues to provide CSK a spin-dominated boost at Chepauk. Rising stars such as Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis bring in new energy. Judicious releases prior to the 2026 auction can also pave the way for crucial reinforcements.

The 2026 edition of the PSL will once again face scheduling constraints when it holds its 11th edition in the same April-May timeframe, which again clashes with the Indian Premier League. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled in that February-March window, and the Pakistan Cricket Board has no other option but to look for alternative windows for holding the tournament.

A December-January PSL proposal was debated, but now seems unrealistic owing to unfinished logistical and operational problems. The PCB can, however, stage the local Pentangular Cup during this time, with top cricketers to ensure competitive levels.

Another complication is the PCB's reorganization of the PSL as a standalone company, still in progress. Salman Naseer has been entrusted with the role of CEO, but other positions remain vacant, which is slowing down important decisions. Valuations of franchises are under uncertainty, as the fees have been hiked up by 25%. The future of Multan Sultans also remains uncertain, because owner Ali Tareen raised an eyebrow regarding the financial losses his franchise incurs over more than PKR 1 billion a year in fees.

ALSO SEE: MS Dhoni reacts after being inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Franchise Uncertainty and Scheduling Clashes Cloud PSL 11 Planning

Expansion plans to increase the league from six to eight teams are also stuck, with franchises saying they have not been spoken to about new business models. In contrast, big commercial deals such as title sponsorship, broadcasting, live streaming, and ground rights are up for renewal. With 54 matches anticipated in an increased league structure, these contracts could see a rise in value by 30%.

Pakistan’s packed international calendar complicates matters further. In November 2025, they host Sri Lanka, followed by domestic competitions in December and January. Australia tours in February and March, and Pakistan will tour Bangladesh in late March and April. Zimbabwe’s scheduled visit in April-May will likely need rescheduling if the PSL takes place during that window.

Franchise fears of colliding with the IPL have eased, but broadcasters are still wary. All six franchises have asked for a PSL Governing Council meeting to discuss these matters, with an answer in the offing. To date, the ultimate decision regarding the schedule of PSL 11 is still pending among various moving parts.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) concluded their 18-year title drought by winning their first IPL trophy in 2025, defeating Punjab Kings in a thrilling final. RCB showed tremendous resilience, incidentally, overcoming a shaky start to the season, but they also found the right balance for their team, anchored with impactful senior players and budding stars when it counted most. However, even title-winning teams must evolve, especially with the mega auction not too far away. RCB may remain on top by being even more inclusive in depth and tactical flexibility through trades next year. Specifically, RCB should add more left-handers, spin options, and young Indian talent. Below are three players RCB should target in trades for IPL 2026.

3. Mahipal Lomror

Lomror was a member of the RCB franchise from 2022 to 2024 and contributed well with the bat. During IPL 2025, he was signed by Gujarat Titans for ₹1.7 crore but didn't play a single match. Lomror is a left-handed batter capable of bowling left-arm spin, which allows the team greater balance and flexibility. Lomror had impressive strike rates as a finisher, where he had a strike rate of 183.82 in the first half of 2024. RCB particularly suffers from a lack of left-handed batting talent since their playing XI only has Krunal Pandya and Devdutt Padikkal as left-handed batters. Lomror's comeback would provide them with improved balance and a trusty domestic asset. With his familiarity with the team, this would be a shrewd and unproblematic exchange.

2. Smaran Ravichandran

Smaran Ravichandran, a left-handed 22-year-old batter from Karnataka, is a domestic upstart. Sunrisers Hyderabad bought him as a replacement in IPL 2025 but did not play him because of injury. But look at his domestic T20 stats—170 runs in 6 games at a strike rate of 170 with a half-century. His attacking style and local attachment may make him an ideal fit for RCB. SRH possesses an established top order, which might make Ravichandran available for trade. His inclusion would bring vigor and variety to RCB's batting. Being a left-hander, he also adds strength to the lineup strategically.

Also Read: Mumbai T20 2025: Points Table, leading run scorers and wicket takers after SBMF vs ETS Match 16

1. Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar provides significant value as an all-round spinner, able to bowl tight off-spin and score brisk runs. In IPL 2025, he was impressive with a strike rate of 166.25 and kept his career economy below 8. Having been with RCB previously from 2018 to 2021, he knows the team ethos. Sundar might provide a good complement to Krunal Pandya's left-arm spin, providing RCB's spin control. He also provides depth in batting, providing a floating role if required. If Gujarat Titans are willing to trade him, Sundar would be a high-impact signing. His all-around quality is tailor-made for the changing needs of RCB.

Suresh Raina, known affectionately as "Mr. IPL," has announced that he will return to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for IPL 2026, this time not as a player but as a batting coach. The former Indian international made the announcement live on air, expressing his excitement to be able to teach the future stars of CSK. As a franchise legend, Raina's confirmed comeback has caused a frenetic rapture among CSK fans, who have long regarded him as one of the finest figures in their franchise history.

Raina's career in the IPL is sheer legitimate greatness. Over 205 matches, he achieved 5,528 runs off 4,095 balls with an average of 32.51 and a strike rate of 136.76. He scored one century and thirty-nine half centuries, with a highest score of 100*. He always was a reliable middle-order batsman, and he contributed tremendously to many of the title runs CSK achieved. Raina also holds the record for the most catches without being a wicketkeeper in IPL history with 109 catches, showing his speed, agility, and ability to put his body on the line for the fans and franchise.

Meanwhile, CSK is currently showcasing their firepower in IPL 2025. In the match today against Gujarat Titans (GT), they put up a huge score of 231/4, with explosive half centuries from Devon Conway and young gun Dewald Brevis. At the halfway stage, GT found themselves a disappointing 85/3 after 10 overs, and they needed something special to mount a successful chase. This match really emphasizes CSK's overall strength and depth to their batting — something that Raina will be a big part of developing come next season.

Raina's New Role: Shaping the Yellow Brigade

Raina's role as a coach for CSK signifies the approach CSK takes in maintaining continuity and legacy. To this end, as the team sets sail for an era potentially beyond the chapter of Dhoni, Raina will provide technical alliance but also leadership potential from an emotional aspect of feeling rather than thinking. Raina knows how to connect with players and has genuine experience that he is more than qualified to exploit.

Watch the video here

Suresh Raina as a CSK batting Coach next seasonpic.twitter.com/QxteoIGXi5

— Prateek (@PagalYuva_) May 25, 2025

Also Read: WATCH: Chennai Super Kings special edit for MS Dhoni in their last league match of IPL 2025

For fans and the franchise, Raina's return to the CSK dressing room, even without the bat, offers both nostalgia and fresh hope. The "Chinna Thala" is back, and this time to shape a fresh chapter off the field for CSK.

As the season of IPL 2025 comes to a close, rumors about the future of MS Dhoni have again dominated the center stage. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), still reeling from their earliest-ever playoff loss, stand under the scanner. But the biggest question for the cricket world at this moment is: will MS Dhoni play IPL 2026?

The five-time winners had a troubled experience in IPL 2025. Injuries, below-par performances, and a mixed-up side rendered CSK the first team to be eliminated from playoff contention. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad's unfortunate elbow fracture pushed Dhoni to assume the captaincy, a return many had hoped would be a fairytale one. It was instead a season of questions than answers.

Dhoni’s performances with the bat have come under scrutiny, with his decision to bat as low as No.9 in certain games drawing criticism. He has scored 180 runs in 12 matches at an average of 25.71 and a strike rate of 140.63. Former Australian cricketer Tom Moody echoed what many were feeling, remarking on ESPNcricinfo that “the spark” seen in Dhoni in previous years seemed to be missing in 2025.

MS Dhoni keeps fans guessing as CSK insiders hint at a possible return for IPL 2026, with leadership transition plans quietly taking shape

Yet, in what may be the clearest signal yet, insiders close to the CSK camp suggest Dhoni is not done. Franchise officials remain confident that the 43-year-old will continue for at least one more season. While Dhoni himself said he will assess his body and make a final decision in the coming months, there has been no indication that he has plans to retire immediately.

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“A lot of them (fans) don’t know when it is going to be my last time, so they want to come and see me play,” Dhoni said after CSK’s win over KKR. “There is no escaping the fact that I am in the last phase of my career. After this IPL gets over, I have to work hard for another 6-8 months to see if my body can take this pressure.” Behind the scenes, CSK is already looking at the future. Ruturaj Gaikwad is expected to resume the captaincy once he recovers, while Dhoni’s role may shift towards being a mentor and strategic backbone, someone who can bridge the young core and the franchise’s legacy.

For the time being, the fabled keeper-batter's tale is yet to be told. He might not be the presence he once was, but his contribution to CSK, both real and perceived, is still gargantuan. As the IPL 2025 season comes to an end with CSK playing Rajasthan Royals on May 20 and Gujarat Titans on May 25, the fans and pundits will keep a keen eye out. The "Whistle Podu" legion's roar could still not be an adios just yet.