In what could be one of the most sensational trades in IPL history, rumours are heating up around Sanju Samson possibly moving from Rajasthan Royals (RR) to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with Ravichandran Ashwin and Shivam Dube potentially heading the other way. Although no official confirmation has surfaced, a cryptic post by former RCB and South Africa analyst Prasanna on X has added fuel to the fire.
Prasanna hinted that a trade involving an Indian off-spinner and a left-handed middle-order batter for a wicketkeeper-batter is in the works—a deal that closely mirrors Ashwin and Dube for Samson. Notably, Prasanna has close ties with Ashwin, frequently appearing on the off-spinner’s YouTube channel, which lends some weight to the speculation.
Financially, the proposed swap would see RR send Samson, an ₹18 crore asset, to CSK in exchange for Dube and Ashwin, collectively worth ₹21.75 crore. RR would reportedly cover the ₹3.75 crore difference in player value.
From a cricketing standpoint, the trade appears to carry benefits for both franchises. CSK have struggled to find a stable opener and a wicketkeeper to eventually succeed MS Dhoni. With Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra likely on the way out, Samson could be the ideal top-order addition. He brings not only explosive batting prowess but also leadership qualities that may see him take over the captaincy from Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has struggled in that role.
Meanwhile, RR have their own restructuring to consider. Despite Samson’s solid performances with the bat, the emergence of young Vaibhav Suryavanshi pushed him to No. 3, a position that may not help his aspirations to open for India. RR, on the other hand, have struggled against spin and with their spin attack. In Ashwin, they would gain an experienced Indian spinner, while Dube offers a proven middle-order spin-basher and added flexibility.
For CSK, Samson represents a multi-dimensional asset, capable of bridging the post-Dhoni era. For RR, Ashwin and Dube fill critical gaps in their bowling and middle-order departments.
While nothing is official yet, this proposed exchange could mark a major turning point for both teams ahead of the 2026 season. Fans will be watching closely to see if these rumours become reality in what could be a historic IPL trade.
