Former India cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath has suggested that Riyan Parag’s captaincy role could be the primary reason behind Sanju Samson’s reported request to be released from Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026, with Chennai Super Kings emerging as a potential destination for the wicketkeeper-batsman. Samson’s 2025 IPL season was marked by limited participation, initially playing as an impact substitute due to wicketkeeping restrictions from the National Cricket Academy. During this period, Riyan Parag assumed captaincy responsibilities for the team. The situation became more complex when Samson, after returning as full-time captain, suffered a side strain injury during a match against Delhi Capitals. This led to Parag once again stepping in as captain. Reports of tension between head coach Rahul Dravid and Samson emerged during the season, though Dravid publicly denied these speculations. The management and coaching staff have not yet made a final decision regarding Samson’s release request. Samson’s absence created an opportunity for 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who made a significant impact by scoring the fastest century by an Indian in the tournament. The successful opening partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Suryavanshi has raised questions about Samson’s position in the team. “I feel Riyan Parag is the reason. If you consider him for captaincy, how do you expect someone like Samson to stay?” Badrinath stated on his YouTube channel. Chennai Super Kings have reportedly shown interest in acquiring Samson, potentially viewing him as a successor to MS Dhoni. However, Badrinath has expressed concerns about Samson’s fit within the CSK lineup. “If Sanju Samson does come to CSK, then he could be the like-for-like replacement for MS Dhoni. Samson is a batter who can bat in the top three or four spots in the batting order. He is not someone who could fit in the number five or six spot in the playing XI. CSK are strong in those areas of the playing XI. Mhatre is settled, Gaikwad is settled, Brevis is settled,” Badrinath explained.
Poll
Do you think Sanju Samson should be released from Rajasthan Royals?
The former India batter further elaborated on the potential transfer challenges: “I am not sure if CSK would do a transaction like MI did to get Hardik Pandya from GT. So even if Sanju Samson comes in, the question remains whether CSK can fit him into the playing XI.” The Rajasthan Royals management faces a crucial decision regarding Samson’s future with the team, considering the emerging young talent and leadership dynamics within the squad. The potential move to Chennai Super Kings presents its own challenges, particularly regarding Samson’s batting position and integration into an already established lineup. The situation remains fluid as all parties involved, including Samson, Rajasthan Royals, and potentially Chennai Super Kings, work towards resolving the matter before the IPL 2026 season.
