New Delhi: Indian wicketkeeper batter Sanju Samson has spoken about his decision to leave Rajasthan Royals, saying he felt his time with the franchise had come to an end after many seasons with the team.
Samson will represent Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League 2026 season after joining the Chennai based franchise in a trade deal ahead of the tournament auction. The move, finalised in November 2025, surprised many fans as Samson had long been associated with Rajasthan Royals.
The 31 year old cricketer from Kerala explained that the decision to move on came after several years with the Jaipur based side. According to him, the shift was part of his natural progression in the league.
Samson had a long and successful association with Rajasthan Royals, representing the franchise across 11 IPL seasons. He first played for the team from 2013 to 2015 before spending two seasons with Delhi Capitals, previously known as Delhi Daredevils, between 2016 and 2017. He later returned to Rajasthan Royals in 2018 and remained with the side until 2025.
During his tenure, Samson became the franchise’s most capped player and its highest run scorer, establishing himself as one of the key figures in the team’s history.
In the upcoming IPL season, Samson is set to make his debut for Chennai Super Kings against his former team Rajasthan Royals. The match will be played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
Despite facing his former teammates, Samson said he intends to keep emotions aside once he steps onto the field. While acknowledging the strong relationships he built with players, staff and management at Rajasthan Royals, he described his move to Chennai Super Kings as the start of an exciting new journey.
Samson added that although there will always be respect and fond memories with his former franchise, he is focused on moving forward and performing with enthusiasm for his new team in the upcoming IPL season.
