Sanju Samson Seeks Release from RR Ahead of IPL 2026
The buzz around the Sanju Samson IPL 2026 release has created massive speculation ahead of the upcoming auction. Soon after the 2025 season ended, Samson reportedly requested Rajasthan Royals to release him from the squad. His unexpected move has raised questions about the future of both the player and the franchise.
Royals Yet to Decide on Sanju Samson IPL 2026 Release
Despite Samson’s formal request, Rajasthan Royals have not yet made a final decision. Their internal season review meetings took place in June, but the management has remained quiet. Manoj Badale, the lead owner, has declined to comment. Ultimately, the verdict will come after discussions between Badale and head coach Rahul Dravid.
🚨 Reports 🚨
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) August 7, 2025
Sanju Samson has reportedly informed Rajasthan Royals that he wishes to be *released ahead of the IPL 2026 auction*.
📸 Getty #SanjuSamson #IPL2026 #RajasthanRoyals #IPLNews #CricketUpdates #Getty pic.twitter.com/o830ScxPNJ
Samson’s History with Rajasthan Royals
Sanju Samson has had a long association with the Royals. His first stint ran from 2013 to 2015. After a brief spell with Delhi, he returned to RR in 2018. The franchise appointed him captain in 2021, and he led them to the IPL 2022 final. However, the team’s performance declined in IPL 2025. With just four wins out of 14 matches, they finished ninth. A side strain limited Samson to nine appearances, with Riyan Parag leading in his absence.
In the 2025 mega auction, RR retained Samson for INR 18 crore. Other retentions included Jaiswal, Parag, Jurel, Sandeep Sharma, and Hetmyer.
Will He Be Traded or Go into Auction?
If the Sanju Samson IPL 2026 release is approved, Rajasthan Royals have two options. They can trade him to another team or send him back into the auction pool. According to IPL rules, the franchise has the final say. A trade may involve cash or a player swap.
What’s Next for Samson?
Currently, Samson is training at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. He was also signed by Kochi Blue Tigers for INR 26.8 lakh in the Kerala Cricket League. With the Asia Cup 2025 approaching, he is likely to be picked for the national squad. The Royals must decide on his future before the November retention deadline.
