As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 player exchange period gets underway with much anticipation, former Indian cricketer and analyst Aakash Chopra has presented his insights on which teams might be interested in Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) talented wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson if he becomes available. Samson, who has apparently requested RR to consider releasing him before the auction, has sparked interest from multiple teams aiming to strengthen their squads. Chopra pinpointed 3 key IPL teams as possible contenders to sign Samson, suggesting strategic choices that could reshape team strengths in the coming IPL seasons.
Chennai Super Kings likely to bid for Sanju Samson for IPL 2026
Based on reports from sources like Cricbuzz and remarks made by Chopra, Samson might find a new home with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Chopra mentioned on his YouTube channel that CSK will be looking to plan beyond MS Dhoni, whose continuation in the sport is uncertain. Despite CSK acquiring Urvil Patel, Chopra stressed the need for a prominent player to take over the leadership and batting responsibilities when Dhoni eventually steps down. He believes Samson is a perfect fit, providing both powerful hitting and skilled wicketkeeping.
Chopra also pondered that CSK could propose a deal involving Ravichandran Ashwin, who has previously played for Rajasthan Royals. This exchange could satisfy RR’s need for a spin bowler while CSK secures a potential successor to Dhoni.
He stated, “They might decide to release Ashwin. It could involve Ashwin and some financial compensation because Rajasthan requires a spinner. Ashwin has also been with them before.” Although Chopra briefly mentioned Ravindra Jadeja as another possible offering from CSK, he doubted RR’s willingness to part with him.
This situation positions CSK as the second most interested team, closely following Kolkata Knight Riders. Furthermore, Chopra sees CSK’s strong desire to protect their legacy by investing in a seasoned and well-known Indian player like Samson who can uphold Dhoni’s reputation.
Two additional teams in the running, according to Aakash Chopra
Chopra suggests KKR as the most enthusiastic team to sign Samson, pointing out KKR’s limited choices for Indian wicketkeeper-batsmen. Chopra proposed that KKR might release Venkatesh Iyer, opening up considerable salary space to accommodate Samson’s signing. This action could enhance KKR’s batting lineup, which has struggled with consistency, and possibly place Samson in a leadership role. Chopra recognized Ajinkya Rahane’s contributions but suggested that a captain with Samson’s abilities could significantly improve the team’s performance.
Notably, Mumbai Indians (MI) also appear as a clever contender interested in Samson. Chopra explained that MI’s Ryan Rickelton is a foreign player, and Jonny Bairstow, who opened after the mid-season interval, is likely to be let go. With Rohit Sharma possibly approaching the end of his IPL career, MI will need a strong opening batsman and experienced player, roles Samson could effectively fill. Chopra commented, “If you acquire Sanju, you can drastically change the team dynamics,” making MI a possible third destination.
