Sanju Samson will play for this team in IPL 2026

Sanju Samson: The Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) trade window is currently open, and there’s already significant buzz and a few major rumors circulating. The trade window allows teams to restructure their squads, swap players, and manage their salary cap ahead of the upcoming mega auction. Sanju Samson will play for this team in IPL 2026.

Recent reports and sources have confirmed that Sanju Samson will remain with the Rajasthan Royals for the IPL 2026 season. Despite widespread speculation linking him to other franchises like Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, the Rajasthan Royals have decided against trading their captain.

Rajasthan Royals team has made it clear that Sanju Samson is an integral part of their setup and will not be traded. He is considered the “undisputed captain” and is central to the team’s long-term plans.

The speculation about him moving to another team, particularly CSK, was fueled by a number of factors. These included an injury-affected season in 2025 where he missed matches, the team’s overall poor performance, and the need for a long-term successor for MS Dhoni at CSK.

Throughout the rumors, Samson maintained a low-key approach, and reports suggest he has demonstrated a commitment to the Royals, the team that has stood by him and made him captain. With the trade rumors put to rest, the focus now for the Rajasthan Royals is on having a fully fit Samson lead the team in the upcoming IPL season

Sanju Samson’s IPL career has been a journey of impressive talent, a period with two different franchises, and a rise to a leadership role. He is known for his elegant right-handed batting and wicketkeeping skills.

Early Career and Rajasthan Royals (2013-2015):

Sanju Samson made his IPL debut in 2013 with the Rajasthan Royals at the age of 18. He quickly made an impact with some gritty knocks and was even named the “Best Young Player of the Season” in his debut year.

During this time, he was mentored by Rahul Dravid, which is often credited with helping to shape him as a cricketer.

Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) (2016-2017):

Change of Team: Following the suspension of the Rajasthan Royals, Samson moved to the Delhi Daredevils.

Centuries: He continued to showcase his talent, scoring his first IPL century for the franchise in 2017.

Return to Rajasthan Royals and Captaincy (2018-Present):

Return: In 2018, Samson returned to the Rajasthan Royals, where he has been a consistent performer ever since.

Captaincy: He was appointed captain of the Rajasthan Royals in 2021, and his performance with the bat has often reflected his new leadership role.

Milestones: He has surpassed Shane Warne to become the most successful captain for the Rajasthan Royals and holds records for the most matches, runs, and dismissals for the franchise.

Recent Form: He has shown great form in recent seasons, with 2024 being a personal best, where he amassed 531 runs, leading the team to the playoffs.

Key IPL Stats (as of August 2025):

Matches: 177

Runs: 4,704

Highest Score: 119

Centuries: 3

Fifties: 26

Wicketkeeping Dismissals: 80 (63 catches, 17 stumpings)

Sanju Samson has been a cornerstone of the Rajasthan Royals franchise for a majority of his career, evolving from a young talent into a key player and a successful captain.

Also Read: IPL 2026 Big Trade: Virat Kohli will join Delhi Capitals