Knight Riders Eye Royal Crown: Will Sanju Samson Swap Pink for Purple?

Image Source: India.com

IPL 2026 trade window is getting hot, and the biggest question mark is over Sanju Samson, former captain of Rajasthan Royals, who is reported to be joining Shah Rukh Khan's Kolkata Knight Riders. A cryptic social media update of KKR scouting head Biju George with Samson has set tongues wagging, suggesting a big-bang trade that can alter the team's dynamics.

Key Points from Trade Rumors

1. Why KKR Needs Samson
- KKR seek for a consistent wicketkeeper-batsman after inconsistent performances by Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Samson's leadership qualification and 4700+ IPL runs make him a strong contender to command the top order and lead the side.

2. Rajasthan Royals' Strategic Shake-Up
- RR is said to be willing to trade six of its main players, including Samson, before the mega auction
- With Riyan Parag emerging as a leadership candidate and Dhruv Jurel emerging as a wicketkeeper-batter, RR could be looking at a change of guard.

3. CSK v KKR: A Bidding War
- Chennai Super Kings also desire Samson in place of MS Dhoni, who will retire prior to IPL 2026
- Both teams have enough money in the new INR 151 crore cap and can retain a maximum of six players, setting up for a battle royale auction

4. What's Next
- Until one week prior to the auction, the window for trade is open - Samson's move could be creating waves across team strategies and supporter allegiances.

Sources: DNA India, Zee News, MyKhel, Mathrubhumi, Gulf News