What Happened to Sanju Samson? | Injury, IPL 2025 Update & Future with CSK?

Sanju Samson—an immensely talented, stylish, and calm cricketer—has always remained a point of interest for cricket fans across India. Whether it’s his explosive batting style, leadership for Rajasthan Royals (RR), or his long-standing debate around India selection, Samson is rarely out of the headlines.

But recently, fans are asking one critical question: What happened to Sanju Samson? From mysterious absences in the latter part of IPL 2025 to intriguing hints about his future with a new team, there’s a lot to unpack.

Let’s take a comprehensive look at his injury, his IPL 2025 performance, off-season updates, and what’s possibly coming next for the Kerala-born star.

🏏 A Look Back: Sanju Samson’s IPL 2025 Performance

Before injury concerns surfaced, Sanju Samson was enjoying a stellar IPL 2025 season. As the captain and batting backbone of Rajasthan Royals, he was leading from the front. He consistently anchored the innings, displaying improved temperament along with his natural flair.

Highlights of His Season:

Averaged 43+ across the first 9 matches
Played two match-winning knocks: 82* vs LSG, 65 vs GT
Brought tactical calmness as RR stayed in top 3 during the first half

His partnership with Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel was emerging as one of the most promising Indian cores in the tournament.

However, things took a sharp turn during a match against Delhi Capitals when Samson walked off the field mid-innings after appearing uncomfortable.

⚕️ The Injury: Abdominal Muscle Strain

In the clash with Delhi Capitals, Sanju Samson suffered an abdominal (side) muscle strain while attempting a powerful drive. Though he initially tried to stay on, it became evident that he wasn’t in shape to continue.

He eventually retired hurt—a moment that sent shockwaves through RR’s dugout and fans across the country.

The medical update revealed:

It was a Grade 1+ side muscle strain, common among batters who frequently play horizontal bat shots.
Though not severe, this injury typically requires 10–21 days of rest and rehabilitation.
RR's coaching staff, under Dravid's guidance, opted to rest Samson to avoid worsening the condition.

This decision turned out to be strategic, but it also meant RR was left without their captain during the most crucial stage of the tournament.

⏸️ Absence and Silence: Missed Matches & Minimal Updates

From that point onward, Samson missed multiple matches for RR, including two playoff qualifiers. What puzzled fans was the limited communication from the franchise. No concrete timeline was given for his return, and media appearances were also paused.

The silence led to:

Rumors of a more serious injury than reported
Speculation about rift or frustration with RR’s medical or management team
Fan worry about Samson's potential exit from IPL 2025 mid-way

However, credible sources confirmed that Samson was not dropped or sidelined for any performance issues. He was simply rested to ensure full fitness before any national-level commitments.

🌍 California Calling: Post-IPL Break

Once RR was knocked out of IPL 2025, Sanju Samson resurfaced—not on the field, but on Instagram.

He posted a series of pictures from California, seemingly enjoying a vacation or perhaps even a short training or mentorship stint. In one of the captions, he referred to "making new friends," which further intensified curiosity.

Was he networking? Was he preparing for international matches? Or was this a break before a major career move?

His fans flooded social media with:

Messages of support
Questions about his fitness
Observations about the color schemes in his pictures (yellow was a recurring theme)

And that’s where the CSK connection was sparked.

🟡 CSK Rumors: Is Sanju Samson Joining Chennai Super Kings?

One of the most viral cricket stories post-IPL 2025 is the rumored shift of Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the 2026 season.

Why is this rumor catching fire?

Yellow Clues: Sanju posted multiple yellow-themed images, which fans interpreted as a hint towards CSK.
Wicketkeeper Vacancy: With MS Dhoni’s final retirement and Devon Conway inconsistent, CSK desperately needs a consistent Indian wicketkeeper-batsman.
Captaincy Potential: Sanju brings leadership experience, calm temperament, and fan appeal—traits CSK may desire in a future captain.
Silent Exit Signs: RR’s official pages have not shared much about retaining or rebuilding around Samson for 2026.

What’s the Reality?

At the moment, no official confirmation has been made either by CSK or Samson. However:

Sources close to CSK management have hinted at exploratory talks.
Some RR insiders have said the franchise might be willing to release Samson if he wants a fresh start.

It’s not just CSK though—Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have also reportedly shown interest. But CSK remains the most discussed destination.

🧠 What Does This Mean for His Career?

Positives:

A move to CSK gives him stability, bigger spotlight, and the potential to be MS Dhoni’s true successor.
His experience as RR captain will help CSK manage the team’s leadership transition.
CSK’s coaching and analytical setup might unlock more consistency in his batting.

Risks:

Leaving RR means letting go of a team he led and shaped over several years.
Higher pressure and expectation in a franchise like CSK.
Possible role conflict if CSK signs other senior players like KL Rahul or Shreyas Iyer.

But one thing’s clear—Sanju Samson is entering a critical chapter in his career. At 30, he’s still in his prime, and where he plays next will define how Indian fans remember him over the next 5–7 years.

📅 What’s Next?

The official IPL 2026 transfer window is expected to open around July-August 2025. During this time, trades, retentions, and transfers will be confirmed.

Expect clarity on:

Sanju Samson’s retention or release from RR
His possible contract with CSK or KKR
Fitness reports or BCCI announcements on his national team future

In the meantime, Samson seems to be focusing on recovery, rest, and reflection. And based on his cryptic but confident online presence, fans can hope for a dramatic return—possibly in yellow!

FAQs

1. Is Sanju Samson injured right now?

Yes, he suffered a side muscle (abdominal) strain during IPL 2025 while batting against Delhi Capitals. Though not a serious injury, it required rest and kept him out of several key matches. He is now in recovery and expected to be fully fit before the next domestic or international assignment.

2. Will Sanju Samson join Chennai Super Kings (CSK)?

There’s no official confirmation yet, but strong rumors and fan theories suggest he might join CSK for IPL 2026. His recent social media hints, CSK’s wicketkeeper need, and his leadership credentials add credibility to the speculation.

3. Why didn’t Sanju Samson play the last matches of IPL 2025?

He was ruled out due to an abdominal muscle strain. The Rajasthan Royals coaching staff chose to rest him to avoid aggravating the injury. Despite being a crucial part of the team, he missed the playoffs, which contributed to RR’s exit.

Final Thoughts

Sanju Samson’s journey continues to be both inspiring and suspenseful. From a dominant start to IPL 2025, to an untimely injury, and now to swirling rumors about a big team switch—his story is far from over.

Whether he returns in RR pink or CSK yellow, what fans want the most is to see Samson healthy, happy, and back doing what he does best—playing fearless cricket.

One thing is certain: wherever Sanju Samson goes, the spotlight follows.

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What Happened to Sanju Samson? Injury Update, IPL 2025 Exit & CSK Transfer Rumors