With Sanju Samson’s potential move to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) nearing completion, Rajasthan Royals (RR) have reportedly begun discussions about their next captain. According to reports, wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal are frontrunners to take over the captaincy for IPL 2026.
Samson is reportedly set to join the Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2026 in a blockbuster trade deal with the Rajasthan Royals. According to ESPNcricinfo, all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran could move to Rajasthan in exchange for the Kerala-born cricketer.
If finalized, the move would mark one of the most significant trades in IPL history. While the deal appears mutually beneficial on paper, experts believe one franchise is likely to gain the upper hand.
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Sanju Samson Led the Rajasthan Royals Over the Last Few Seasons
Sanju Samson served as captain of the Rajasthan Royals in the last few seasons. Samson was appointed skipper in 2021. The wicketkeeper-batter led the team in 67 matches, winning 33 and losing 33. He played a vital role in reviving the Royals’ fortunes during his tenure.
Under his leadership, Rajasthan had one of their best campaigns in 2022, reaching their first IPL final in 14 years before losing to the Gujarat Titans (GT). Samson recorded his maiden 500-run season in 2024, scoring 531 runs at an average of 48.27 and a strike rate of 153.47.
However, a side injury in 2025 sidelined him for the latter half of the tournament, and RR finished ninth in the standings. With Sanju Samson now set to move to Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan are expected to hand over the reins to another player, while new signing Ravindra Jadeja will join as a player.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel Emerge as Leading Candidates to Replace Sanju Samson
Rajasthan Royals have undergone significant changes in recent weeks, with former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara returning as head coach following Rahul Dravid’s departure. The franchise has also parted ways with CEO Jake Lush McCrum.
Riyan Parag captained the side in Samson’s absence last season. The team won two of eight matches, and he is reportedly not in contention for the top role.
According to a report by The Times of India, Dhruv Jurel is the leading candidate to replace Sanju Samson as Rajasthan Royals’ next captain. He is expected to lead the team ahead of Yashasvi Jaiswal due to his all-round abilities and leadership potential.
“Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, a homegrown talent of the Royals, is the pick of many who matter in the franchise set-up. Team India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who also made his IPL debut for the Royals, is another name the franchise is considering,” those tracking the developments have told TimesofIndia.com.
Dhruv Jurel Likely to Beat Yashasvi Jaiswal in Race for Rajasthan Royals Captaincy
Dhruv Jurel has a slight edge over Yashasvi Jaiswal to take over the Rajasthan Royals’ captaincy. Both players, who share a strong rapport with head coach Kumar Sangakkara, were informed about the leadership possibilities while they were in England for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
The report added that Jurel’s multi-dimensional skill set has made him the preferred choice for the role. His position behind the stumps allows him to read the game closely and influence on-field tactics.
In IPL 2025, Jurel scored 333 runs at an average of 37 and a strike rate of 156.34. He was retained for ₹14 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.
