Sanju Samson wants to leave the Rajasthan Royals (RR) before IPL 2026 starts. The main reason seems to be Riyan Parag. But what really happened? Let’s dive into the details.
Reports of Sanju Samson’s Exit from RR
Sanju Samson, the captain of Rajasthan Royals, has told the team he wants to leave before the next season. There’s no official word from RR or coach Rahul Dravid, but insiders say there’s tension.
Former cricketer S. Badrinath has made a shocking claim. He thinks Riyan Parag is the reason behind Samson’s decision.
Badrinath’s Bold Claim: Riyan Parag at the Centre of It All
On his YouTube channel, S. Badrinath said:
“I feel the reason is Riyan Parag. If you are handing over the captaincy to him, how can a player like Samson stay in the team?”
In IPL 2025, Rajasthan Royals made Riyan Parag captain because Samson was injured. Rahul Dravid, who had left the Indian team, came back to RR. He helped make Parag captain while Samson was out.
How Injuries Changed the Leadership Equation
When Samson returned as captain, another injury struck. This time, he was out for a match against Delhi Capitals. Riyan Parag took over the captaincy again.
Without Samson, RR took a risk by debuting 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryawanshi. He made headlines with a century in 35 balls against Gujarat Titans. His batting style won fans over, boosting the team’s confidence without Samson.
Is Sanju Samson Headed to CSK?
There’s also talk that Sanju Samson might join Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Badrinath suggests Samson could replace MS Dhoni in the future.
But Badrinath points out a challenge. Samson is a top-order batsman, and CSK already has strong players in those spots. They have Ayush Mahatre, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Dewald Brevis.
This raises a question—can CSK fit Samson into their lineup? Unlike Mumbai Indians, who brought back Hardik Pandya, it’s unclear if CSK will make a similar move for Samson.
Samson’s IPL Performance: A Mixed Bag
Sanju Samson’s 2025 IPL season was not what fans expected. In 9 matches, he scored 285 runs with an average of 35.62. His highest score was 66 runs.
In his IPL career, Samson has played 177 matches. He scored 4704 runs at a strike rate of 139.04. He has 3 centuries and 26 half-centuries, with a personal best of 119 runs.
Despite impressive stats, his recent injuries and the emergence of younger players like Vaibhav Suryawanshi might affect RR’s plans.
Rahul Dravid’s Role in the Drama
Rahul Dravid’s return to Rajasthan Royals added a new layer to the story. As head coach, Dravid backed Parag’s leadership when Samson was out. This move might have led to a leadership conflict, affecting Samson’s decision to leave.
What’s Next for Sanju Samson?
If Samson indeed leaves RR, IPL 2026 could see a major player transfer. His experience and leadership skills will make him a valuable asset, whether he joins CSK or another team.
However, integrating him into a team’s batting order will be challenging. This is especially true for teams with a strong top order.
Final Thoughts
The Samson–Parag situation shows the delicate balance in the IPL. Injuries, form, and management decisions can drastically change a player’s future.
Fans are eagerly waiting for official news. IPL 2026 is already filled with drama, even before the auction. Samson’s next move will be a major topic in Indian cricket.
Highlights
Also Read –
Jasprit Bumrah: India’s Lone Super Fighter as Test Failures Mount in Australia and England
Youngest Cricket Captain Zach Vukusic at 17 Years and 311 Days: A New Milestone in History!”
Asia Cup 2025: Will Jasprit Bumrah Play? Big Update from Team India!
Palestine’s Top Footballer Suleiman Al-Obeid Killed in Israeli Attack While Seeking Aid in Gaza
