Indian cricketer Sanju Samson’s cricket journey is entering a new chapter and it is one filled with both excitement and emotion. After spending ten years with Rajasthan Royals, the team that shaped much of his IPL career, Samson has been traded to Chennai Super Kings ahead of the 2026 auction. The move marks a significant shift for the wicketkeeper-batter, who took a moment to look back on his time with the Rajasthan franchise and express his gratitude.
In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Sanju Samson shared how deeply the Royals had become a part of his life. He wrote that even though players are with a team for a limited time only, he had given everything to the franchise, enjoyed memorable cricketing moments and built relationships that felt like family. He said that moving on wasn’t easy but he would always remain thankful for everything the Royals gave him.
Here is what Sanju Samson wrote, “We are only here for a short period of time. Gave my everything to this franchise, enjoyed some great cricket, made some lifetime relations, treated everyone in the franchise as my family.. And when it’s time..I am moving on.. Shall always be grateful for everything @rajasthanroyals”.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DREL–vkRsM
Sanju Samson brings immense experience with him, having played 177 IPL matches. Since debuting in 2013, he has been a central figure for RR, except during two seasons with Delhi Capitals in 2016 and 2017. Joining CSK now marks the third team of his IPL career.
His transfer comes as part of a major trade that saw Chennai Super Kings send Ravindra Jadeja and England’s Sam Curran to Rajasthan. Jadeja, who spent most of his IPL career with CSK, will now return to the franchise where he began his league journey.
Looking back on his years with RR, Sanju Samson also spoke lovingly about his admiration for MS Dhoni — someone he had always dreamed of being around. In a conversation shared by a sports channel, he explained that like many young Indian cricketers, he always hoped to sit with Dhoni, talk to him and learn from his calm, strategic mindset. He further said that just being near him felt like a dream.
Sanju Samson recalled waiting eight seasons before finally getting the chance to meet MS Dhoni properly. It happened after a match in which he helped RR defeat CSK and won the Player of the Match. That moment opened the door to more conversations, more interactions and a growing bond that he still considers a blessing. He even shared how surreal it felt to shoot with Dhoni later on, calling it nothing short of a dream come true.
As Sanju Samson prepares to wear the yellow jersey, his message makes it clear that while he is ready for what lies ahead, he carries a decade of memories, growth and gratitude from Rajasthan, memories that will always be a part of him.
