Sanju Samson ready for a KKR signing? Here's the update
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) could be one of the strongest contenders to sign Sanju Samson if the Rajasthan Royals (RR) choose to release him ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. In a recent discussion, Chopra pointed out that KKR are in need of a quality Indian wicketkeeper-batter who can also lead the side—two roles that Samson fits perfectly. He further noted that the franchise could potentially create enough purse space by releasing Venkatesh Iyer, which would make room for Samson’s inclusion.
According to recent reports, Samson has formally requested the Rajasthan Royals to release or trade him, following a disappointing 2025 season and growing differences with team management. KKR, who have previously relied on overseas keepers like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Quinton de Kock, struggled with a lack of a reliable Indian wicketkeeper-batsman. They had let go of Phil Salt before the 2025 season, with Salt joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Samson’s addition could fill a crucial gap in KKR’s squad, offering both stability with the bat and leadership on the field. With the 2026 auction approaching, all eyes will be on whether RR accept Samson’s request and if KKR make a strong move for him.
"The first name that comes to my mind is not CSK. KKR should be the most desperate team. KKR don't have an Indian wicketkeeper-batter, and that just ties their hands behind their back. Secondly, what's wrong if you get a captain? I am not denying that Ajinkya Rahane has captained well and has scored runs as well," said former India cricketer Aakash Chopra.
"However, Ajinkya Rahane as a batter, either he opens or else the batting order has been a bit of a problem. They have a player they can release as well. If they wish, they can release Venkatesh Iyer, free up nearly ₹24 crore, and then they can actually make a difference," he added.
Aakash Chopra also raised an important question regarding Sanju Samson’s reported desire to part ways with Rajasthan Royals. He pointed out that the franchise had shown significant trust in Samson by releasing star batter Jos Buttler ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. This bold move was made to give Samson a more central role in the team, not only as a wicketkeeper-batter but also as a leader at the top of the order. Chopra expressed surprise that despite this gesture, Samson might still be seeking a way out of the franchise. He noted that RR had built their batting unit around Samson and backed him even during tough phases, making his alleged request for release even more puzzling.
"Why would Sanju Samson want to leave? It's interesting because when the last mega auction happened, they let Jos Buttler go, and I felt they let Jos Buttler go because Yashasvi had come and Sanju wanted to open, and Sanju and Rajasthan Royals were really, really thick," Chopra added.
