Rajasthan Royals' captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings: Is it possible?

Is Sanju Samson really joining the Chennai Super Kings? It's hard to believe. He was the first player retained by the Rajasthan Royals for ₹180 million (around Dh7.73 million). A year later, can he just walk away from the team he's led for five seasons? You never know.

Nothing is permanent in the Indian Premier League. Today's rivals can become tomorrow's teammates. The IPL thrives on change — mini-auctions and trade-offs can shift dynamics overnight. So, a move away from Rajasthan for Samson can't be ruled out, especially after the Royals' disappointing season.

Perhaps the Royals Sports Group is seeking a change in leadership. It would be understandable. Since winning the inaugural title in 2008, Rajasthan haven't made it to another final despite reaching the playoffs six times. A leadership shake-up ahead of next season wouldn't be surprising.

The real question is: are we reading too much into Samson's Instagram post? "Time to MOVE..!" he wrote, under a picture him crossing a road with his wife Charulatha. Is he hinting at leaving Rajasthan? Or is he just teasing his followers? Hard to tell — celebrities and athletes often post cryptic messages and leave us guessing.

Still, speculation is inevitable. Some social media users point to the yellow line in the road from the Instagram photo and suggest it hints at a move to the "Yellove" of Chennai. That's quite a stretch, even for a clue.

Let's examine the possibilities. CSK already has Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain and MS Dhoni as wicketkeeper — roles Samson would naturally fit into. That raises more questions.

Would Samson play under Gaikwad? Or would Gaikwad step aside for Samson to lead? Dhoni's fitness — especially his knee — has been a subject of scrutiny every season. Every year, fans ask if he'll return, and every year, he does.

If Dhoni continues as wicketkeeper next season, there may be no space for Samson — unless Dhoni moves into an advisory or coaching role, which, at the moment, seems unlikely.

So, I'm inclined to believe a move to CSK isn't on the cards for Samson —at least not next season. But as always in the IPL, never say never. Things can change. And who knows — Samson might yet don the yellow.