The IPL trade window has once again stirred excitement and speculation, this time with talk of a massive swap that could see Sanju Samson donning the yellow of Chennai Super Kings. The Rajasthan Royals captain and India wicketkeeper-batter is reportedly part of ongoing negotiations between RR and CSK in a deal that might involve Ravindra Jadeja moving the other way.
The trade, however, isn’t straightforward. Reports suggest a third player, an overseas cricketer, is complicating the talks. Rajasthan’s overseas quota is already full and they would have to release a foreign player to make space, possibly someone like Sam Curran, who was bought by CSK for Rs 2.4 crore. Adding to the challenge, RR’s remaining purse is just Rs 30 lakh, making the financial logistics even tougher.
If the deal somehow goes through, it could change the dynamic of Chennai’s lineup and more importantly, it might affect MS Dhoni’s role in the side. Sanju Samson, like Dhoni, is a wicketkeeper-batter and that overlap has led to questions about whether the legendary CSK skipper would continue as a full-time player or transition into a more limited role.
Former CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath believes Dhoni won’t settle for being just an Impact Player. He feels that if Dhoni takes the field, it will be as the team’s wicketkeeper because of his presence, experience and deep connection with the Chepauk crowd. According to Badrinath, even if Dhoni doesn’t play every match next season, his influence and leadership will remain integral to the team.
He added that Dhoni still commands immense respect within the CSK setup, guiding bowlers, adjusting field placements and supporting new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad with his vast experience. In his view, Dhoni’s value to Chennai goes far beyond runs or dismissals, it lies in the calm authority he brings every time he steps on the field.
As the rumours swirl, one thing is certain, if the trade involving Sanju Samson does happen, it will not only be one of the biggest moves of the IPL off-season but also the beginning of a fascinating new chapter in CSK’s story, one where the legend of Dhoni continues to evolve.
