IPL 2026: 'CSK can release Ravichandran Ashwin to pursue Sanju Samson' - Aakash Chopra

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra acknowledged that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) could also be a strong contender to sign Sanju Samson if Rajasthan Royals (RR) decide to release the top-ranked wicketkeeper-batter. He suggested that CSK might consider trading Ravichandran Ashwin to RR in such a scenario, noting that the off-spinner has previously played for RR.

Samson has reportedly requested to be released by RR ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. A CSK official has already expressed interest in acquiring the wicketkeeper-batter. Chopra also mentioned that while Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) appear the most eager to sign Samson, CSK could be the second-most interested franchise.

"The second team that comes to my mind is CSK. Chennai will be keen. Chennai have to now look beyond MS Dhoni. I am not saying whether Dhoni will play this year or not. They have brought Urvil Patel, but Urvil Patel is not going to be that CSK's brand. If someone comes in place of MS Dhoni, it has to be a big name," Chopra said in his YouTube Channel.

"They can release Ashwin. It could be Ashwin plus some money because Rajasthan need a spinner. Ashwin has played there earlier too. I had floated Jaddu's (Ravindra Jadeja) name earlier once, but I don't think they are going to release him," he added.

Samson can change the dynamics of MI: Chopra

Chopra stated that CSK would be interested in either Samson or Rishabh Pant as a long-term replacement for MS Dhoni. He added that Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are unlikely to release Pant. Chopra also recommended that Mumbai Indians (MI) might be the third franchise keen on acquiring Samson, noting that his addition could significantly change MI’s team dynamics.

"The third team I am thinking of is slightly outside the box. That is the Mumbai Indians. They have Ryan Rickelton, a left-handed opening batter, but he is overseas. Ultimately, you get stuck. When he left, you had to bring in Jonny Bairstow, and they can't stop Jonny Bairstow. He came after the break, so he will have to be released. He is not available for them to keep. Rohit Sharma opens with Ryan Rickelton. The team is good, but if you want to make it stronger, you will want to take Sanju. If you get Sanju, suddenly, you can change the dynamics a bit more," he concluded.

The cricketer-turned-commentator also explained that the five-time champions resolved their captaincy concerns by signing Hardik Pandya from Gujarat Titans (GT). With Rohit Sharma possibly nearing retirement from the IPL, Chopra noted that the opening slot will need a strong replacement, one that Samson fits perfectly.