Sanju Samson wants to leave the Rajasthan Royals. This news has shocked many IPL fans. Samson has been the team’s face for several years. Yet now, he has asked the franchise to release him ahead of the IPL 2026 season. His decision has raised many questions.
Sanju Samson joined the Rajasthan Royals in 2018. Since then, he has been their most consistent batter. He also became the captain in 2021. Under his leadership, the team reached the IPL 2022 final. He is also the top run-scorer in RR history. He is not just another player. Also, he has been the heart of the team.
However, things have changed in recent times. Reports suggest that his relationship with the management has become tense. This tension seems to be the main reason behind his decision to move on.
The trouble reportedly began last season. Samson injured himself during the tournament. When he returned, the team denied him his regular opening spot. Instead, they asked him to bat at number three. This move upset him. He felt the team had reduced his role. Moreover, some differences also arose between him and the management. While the exact details are not public, sources say the communication between the two sides was not smooth.
Right now, Samson is still under contract with the Rajasthan Royals. In the IPL, a player cannot leave a team unless the franchise agrees to release him or trade him. This means the decision is in RR’s hands. The Royals can try to convince him to stay. They could also look for a trade deal with another team. If they cannot agree on terms, Samson might have to enter the IPL 2026 mega auction.
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are interested in signing up Samson. Reports even suggest that Samson met some CSK members during the US Major League Cricket season. However, talks between RR and CSK have not moved forward. RR is reportedly asking for two key players in exchange, which CSK is not ready to give. This has created a deadlock. CSK may choose to wait until the auction instead of making a trade.
Samson’s family has confirmed he’s not interested in sticking with the Royals any longer, adding to the unfolding drama. This makes it clear that the decision is not just a rumour, it’s something Samson has thought about seriously.
Sanju Samson’s Rajasthan Royals Career Statistics
| Match | Runs | HS | Avg | SR | 4s | 6s | CT |
| 177 | 4704 | 119 | 30.95 | 139.05 | 379 | 219 | 86 |
For RR, losing their captain and star player would be a huge blow. For Samson, leaving a team where he has built his career is not easy either. The coming weeks will decide if he stays, gets traded, or heads to the auction.
In short, Sanju Samson wants to leave the Rajasthan Royals. The reasons include changes in roles on the field and misunderstandings off the field. Fans are now waiting to see where he plays next season. One thing is certain: this IPL offseason will be full of drama.
