IPL 2026: CSK Could Trade Ashwin to Sign Sanju Samson, Says Aakash Chopra
The IPL 2026 trade buzz is heating up, and one of the biggest headlines emerging is the potential move of Sanju Samson away from Rajasthan Royals. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has weighed in on the speculation, suggesting that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) could become a major contender in the race to sign the star wicketkeeper-batter if RR agree to release him.
Sanju Samson Set to Exit RR?
According to recent reports, Sanju Samson has formally requested to be released by Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. This revelation has sparked significant interest from multiple franchises, with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) being one of the frontrunners. However, Aakash Chopra believes CSK could emerge as a serious challenger in this high-profile chase.
Chopra: “Chennai Will Be Keen”
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra explained:
“The second team that comes to my mind is CSK. Chennai will be keen. Chennai have to now look beyond MS Dhoni. I am not saying whether Dhoni will play this year or not. They have brought Urvil Patel, but Urvil Patel is not going to be that CSK brand. If someone comes in place of MS Dhoni, it has to be a big name.”
With MS Dhoni possibly nearing retirement, CSK are searching for a marquee player to take up the leadership and wicketkeeping duties—and Samson seems to fit that bill perfectly.
Ashwin Trade on the Cards?
In a bold suggestion, Chopra proposed that CSK might consider trading Ravichandran Ashwin back to RR, a team the veteran off-spinner has previously played for.
“They can release Ashwin. It could be Ashwin plus some money because Rajasthan need a spinner. Ashwin has played there earlier too,” Chopra noted.
While he also floated Ravindra Jadeja as a possible trade name earlier, he now believes CSK are unlikely to let go of Jadeja given his core value to the franchise.
What This Means for CSK
CSK is clearly planning for a post-Dhoni era, and bringing in a consistent performer like Samson could be part of a long-term strategy. Samson, with his leadership experience at RR and explosive batting prowess, could be the ideal face of the next generation at CSK.
The franchise has already shown interest in acquiring him, according to inside sources. Now, all eyes will be on how RR responds and whether a blockbuster trade—possibly involving Ashwin—materializes in the weeks ahead.
Stay tuned for more IPL 2026 trade updates and player movement news!
As the buzz around Sanju Samson’s potential exit from Rajasthan Royals (RR) gains momentum, former India cricketer and cricket analyst Aakash Chopra has once again stirred the conversation, this time linking Samson not just to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), but also to Mumbai Indians (MI)—in a move that could completely alter their team balance ahead of IPL 2026.
Samson: A Hot Property in the IPL Trade Market
With reports confirming that Samson has requested a release from RR ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction, speculation is at an all-time high about which franchise will land the explosive wicketkeeper-batter.
In his latest comments, Aakash Chopra emphasized that while CSK remains a strong contender to sign Samson, Mumbai Indians could be a surprise third party with serious interest.
Chopra on CSK’s Long-Term Vision
Chopra highlighted that CSK will be on the lookout for a long-term replacement for MS Dhoni, and both Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant would be ideal choices. However, he quickly ruled out Pant joining CSK, citing:
“CSK would be interested in either Samson or Rishabh Pant as a long-term replacement for MS Dhoni. But Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are unlikely to release Pant.”
That brings the focus back on Samson—a proven leader, consistent top-order batter, and one of the best wicketkeepers in India.
The cricketer-turned-commentator also explained that the five-time champions resolved their captaincy concerns by signing Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans (GT). With Rohit Sharma possibly nearing retirement from the IPL, Chopra noted that the opening slot will need a strong replacement, one that Samson fits perfectly.
