• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Sanju Samson has come up with a big statement while reacting to the speculations of his possible departure from the Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026.

If a few media reports are to be believed, the star wicketkeeper-batter Samson has expressed his desire to part ways with the Rajasthan Royals, whereas the Chennai Super Kings are willing to have him via an all-cash deal.

Amid all the rumours and speculations, Samson broke his silence on his bonding with the Royals. In a conversation with Ravichandran Ashwin in the latter’s YouTube podcast, ‘Kutti Stories’, the Kerala cricketer explained how his association with RR changed his life.

ALSO READ: Karun Nair Praises Shubman Gill's Test Leadership After Memorable England Tour

"RR has meant the world to me. A small child coming from a village in Kerala, wanting to show his talent. And then Rahul sir and Manoj Badale sir gave me a stage to get up and show the world what I am made of. That time, they trusted me throughout. The journey with RR has been really great, and I’m very grateful to have been in a franchise like that. It really means a lot to me," Sanju told Ashwin.

ALSO READ: Sanju Samson, R Ashwin Impressed By THIS Youngster's Performance In IPL 2025

Samson made his debut for RR during the IPL 2013 and has 11 seasons for them so far. He has featured in 176 matches in his IPL career and has scored 4704 runs at an average of 30.75 on the back of 26 fifties and three centuries. He is the highest run-getter in RR's history with 4219 runs from 150 innings.

However, recent reports have suggested that Samson handed in a transfer request ahead of the 2026 season as he wants a fresh start in the IPL.

RR had a disappointing campaign in the IPL 2025 as they finished in ninth spot, with Samson featuring in nine matches due to an injury. There were reports claiming that there was a rift between Samson and head coach Rahul Dravid, which was later squashed by the latter. Notably, the 30-year-old was retained by RR in the IPL 2025 mega auction for 18 crore rupees.