Overview
- CSK introduced Samson with a high-profile video referencing Rajinikanth films, confirmed he will wear No. 11, and positioned him as the side’s wicketkeeper-batter.
- The confirmed trade sent Samson to CSK with Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran moving to Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026.
- Badale said captaincy is not being decided now and that six or seven players are under consideration, with the process to follow the December 16 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi.
- Anil Kumble publicly floated Jadeja as a possible RR captain and suggested Samson take the gloves for CSK, adding that MS Dhoni may feature without keeping.
- Multiple outlets report Jadeja accepted a reduced INR 14 crore deal to rejoin RR, a pay cut from his previous CSK contract, though the team has not announced terms.