'Emotionally exhausted after Rajasthan's worst IPL season'; RR owner about Sanju Samson

JAIPUR: Former Rajasthan Royals captain and wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson joined Chennai Super Kings. Sanju's move was part of a trade deal that saw Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran join Rajasthan from Chennai. Following this, Rajasthan Royals owner Manoj Badale opened up about the real reason that led to Sanju's move.

The owner made this known in a video posted on the Rajasthan Royals' official YouTube channel.

"Sanju first spoke about leaving the team at the end of last season in Kolkata. We had a meeting after the match. He is very honest. He was personally and emotionally exhausted at that time. Sanju cares about Rajasthan a lot. Last year was the worst season in Rajasthan’s IPL history. It might have taken a huge toll on Sanju.

Considering Sanju's sincerity, his request to change the team was considered."

Sanju first joined the Royals in 2013. After being a part of the team until 2015, he played for the Delhi Capitals for two seasons. Sanju returned to the Royals in 2018 and remained with the team until 2025. When Sanju was the captain in the 2022 IPL season, the Rajasthan Royals reached the final but were defeated by Gujarat in the finals.