IPL 2026: Sanju Samson Lifts Veil, Explains Reason Behind RR Exit, CSK Switch, ‘Felt My Time Was Over’

IPL 2026 News: Sanju Samson, the T20 World Cup champion, revealed his reason for parting ways with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 and joining the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), stating that his decision stemmed from the self realisation that his journey at RR was over.

The right-handed batter was traded to CSK by RR last year for INR 18 crore. During the announcement, Rajasthan management disclosed that Samson has made his intentions clear to leave the franchise midway through the 2025 season, and the final deal took place ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.

Putting all the whispers to rest, Samson, who represented Rajasthan from 2018 to 2025, said he has no problem playing for CSK as he doesn't let sentiments take a toll on him.

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“I left Rajasthan Royals because I felt my time in the team was over," Samson said in a PTI video.

“It’s a situation that hasn’t happened yet. This is the first time I’m going to play against RR after playing (for them) in IPL. I don’t really think about the emotions once I step onto the ground. The game will definitely dictate it. But even before the match and even after the match, when I play with the old team, there are a lot of players with whom we played when we were young. There are a lot of management and support staff. Everyone is there. They definitely have love and respect,” Samson added.

Sanju expressed his excitement about donning the yellow jersey for the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming season.

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“But as I said earlier, everyone has their own time. My time was with RR. I went forward because I thought it was over. So when I go forward, there is a bit of excitement. It’s a new journey. Even if I play against RR, I want to play with a lot of happiness," Samson said.

Notably, in an interesting twist, Sanju will be seen donning the CSK’s yellow jersey against his former franchise, the Rajasthan Royals, in the five-time champions' IPL 2026 campaign opener at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on March 30.