Speculation surrounding potential player trades ahead of the 2026 IPL season has intensified, with rumors swirling around Ravichandran Ashwin and Sanju Samson. Ashwin, in a recent video, added a fresh twist to the buzz by playfully addressing the rumors of a potential trade involving himself and Samson.
The off-spinner, who was bought by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the IPL 2025 auction for INR 9.75 crore, had a modest season, taking seven wickets in nine games. There are reports that Ashwin has requested to be released from CSK. Simultaneously, reports have emerged suggesting that Sanju Samson is unhappy with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) management and has requested a trade or release. CSK is rumored to be interested in signing Samson, viewing him as a potential long-term option to fill the void that will be created whenever MS Dhoni retires.
In a teaser for an upcoming episode of "Kutti Stories with Ash," Ashwin is seen in conversation with Samson, whose future with RR has been a topic of much discussion. Ashwin jokingly tells Samson, "I have a lot of questions to ask. But before that, I thought I'll come directly and trade myself. I am happy to stay back in Kerala. There are a lot of rumours going on. Neither do I know of anything. So, I thought I'll reach out to you and ask you. If I can stay back in Kerala and you can travel back to Chennai". Samson, while not verbally confirming or denying the rumors, is seen laughing in response.
Ashwin further stated that he had sought clarity regarding his position with CSK last season itself. This statement adds another layer to the ongoing speculation about his departure from the Chennai-based franchise.
Reports suggest that Samson's discontent with RR stems from "serious differences" with the team's management. Some reports claim that Samson family members have said he doesn't want to continue with the Royals. It has also been reported that Samson was not fully involved in team meetings after recovering from an injury during the IPL 2025 season.
The possibility of a trade between Ashwin and Samson has been presented as a potential win-win situation for both RR and CSK. Ashwin previously enjoyed success with the Rajasthan franchise, and Samson could provide CSK with a valuable wicket-keeper batter and captaincy option. If Samson joins CSK, it would be the third IPL franchise he has played for, after Delhi Capitals and RR. He has scored over 4,000 runs for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL and led the team to the final in 2022.
While neither Ashwin nor Samson has officially confirmed any trade or release, their recent interactions and the circulating reports suggest a potential shake-up in the IPL landscape. With the IPL 2026 season still months away, further developments are expected as franchises finalize their plans and strategies.
