- August 10, 2025
Every IPL off-season brings its share of rumors, but this one’s a biggie — Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals’ long-time skipper, might be ready to pack his bags. After a frustrating 2025 campaign that saw RR finish ninth and Samson battling injuries, ESPNcricinfo reports he’s told the franchise he wants out.
But here’s the thing: walking away now might not be the smartest move for Sanju — and for RR fans, it might be a heartbreak they don’t need. Let’s break down three compelling reasons why staying put could be the best call for both captain and franchise.
The Legacy That’s Still Waiting to Be Written
The Rajasthan Royals’ story started with a bang – Shane Warne lifting the trophy in 2008 – and then… well, let’s just say the sequel is still “in production.” The closest they have come since then is the 2022 final, where Samson led the team in attempting to win the title, only to fall short against the Gujarat Titans.
As the captain since 2021, Samson’s record is perfectly balanced, 33 wins, 33 losses, and one no result, from 67 games. That is not mediocrity – that indicates he has kept a competitive team together, despite inconsistent squads and high-profile exits.
If he jumps ship to a team like CSK, he’d probably have to play under Ruturaj Gaikwad, meaning his captaincy ambitions would take a backseat. Sure, he could rack up runs, but the chance to go down in history as the man who led RR to a long-awaited second title? That’s something only staying can offer.
Loyalty Runs Both Ways
Sanju’s IPL journey has come full circle. Back in 2012, he was just another youngster at KKR who didn’t get a game. The Royals spotted his potential in 2013, gave him his debut, and stuck with him through ups and downs. Even after a stint with Delhi, they brought him back in 2018, eventually handing him the captaincy. But more than the statistics, he has become the face and foundation of the Rajasthan Royals’ identity.
Leaving now, after the franchise retained him for ₹18 crore in the latest mega auction, would feel like breaking up mid-road trip. The Royals took the risk of backing him, even when it meant parting ways with icons like Jos Buttler and Ashwin. Sticking around isn’t just about sentiment — it’s about finishing the journey they started together.
Rajasthan Royals Build Their Team Around Sanju Samson
Rahul Dravid returned as head coach. The core six retained players? Samson, Jaiswal, Parag, Jurel, Hetmyer, and Sandeep Sharma. That’s not an accident — it’s a strategy centered on their skipper.
They even made bold cuts, letting go of proven match-winners to create a fresh, Samson-led squad. Yes, the 2025 season tanked. Injuries didn’t help. But the bigger picture is clear: the Rajasthan Royals’ blueprint runs through their captain.
Legally speaking, he is connected to the franchise until the termination of the 2027 cycle. If he stays, he’s not only part of the rebuild — he’s the driving force behind it. Leaving here would be like walking away from the construction of your dream home halfway through.
Sanju Samson is at a tricky juncture, and he has two decisions to make. One leads to a different team and a fresh start, which may lead to some individual awards and name recognition. The other route is unfinished business, legacy, and the chance to immortalize himself in RR history.
