Ashwin and Samson’s light-hearted moment sparks fresh speculation about IPL trades
In the high-energy world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), rumours travel faster than a yorker at the death overs — and this week’s gossip mill is spinning thanks to Ravichandran Ashwin and Sanju Samson. A playful exchange between the two cricketers has set social media abuzz, with fans wondering if a major IPL trade is on the cards.
On Friday, August 8, Ashwin shared a short teaser of an interview with Samson on his social media accounts. The clip dropped right when whispers of Ashwin’s potential exit from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Samson’s rumoured departure from Rajasthan Royals (RR) were gaining momentum.
The video — casual, humorous, and cryptic — shows Ashwin jokingly suggesting that he might “trade himself” if Samson could “travel back to Chennai.” While the actual conversation’s context remains unclear, Samson’s reaction stole the show. Unable to hold back his laughter, the RR skipper listened quietly as Ashwin delivered his teasing one-liners.
Ashwin’s Cheeky Offer — ‘Let’s Swap Places’
In the now-viral clip, Ashwin begins with a mysterious tone:
“I have a lot of questions to ask. But before that, I thought I’ll come directly and trade myself. I’m happy to stay back in Kerala. There are a lot of rumours going on. I don’t know anything for sure. So, I thought I’d reach out to you and ask — if I can stay back in Kerala and you can travel back to Chennai.”
While the lines were clearly delivered in jest, the timing of the video couldn’t be more perfect — or suspicious, depending on how you look at it.
The Trade Rumours Behind the Laughter
Reports about Sanju Samson’s possible exit from Rajasthan Royals started surfacing just days ago. Sources suggested that the Kerala-born wicketkeeper-batsman had informed RR management about his desire to move on, citing differences with the franchise.
If the rumours prove true, Chennai Super Kings are reportedly leading the race to sign him. However, the path isn’t straightforward. For CSK to bring Samson onboard directly, RR would likely demand a swap deal involving key players. The alternative? Samson could be released and head to the IPL auction — a route that would open the bidding to all teams and reduce CSK’s chances of securing him.
Ashwin’s Future with CSK Also in Question
Interestingly, the speculation isn’t limited to Samson alone. On the very same day, reports also emerged claiming that Ashwin might be looking to part ways with CSK. Team captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and franchise legend MS Dhoni have reportedly been in Chennai over the past few days, meeting with top officials to discuss the squad’s direction for the upcoming season.
Ashwin, signed for a hefty ₹9.75 crore last year, returned to CSK after nine years away. He played just nine matches in the 2024 season. While no official statement has been released, sources suggest that the veteran off-spinner could be released ahead of the next auction — or possibly be part of a trade deal.
A History of Switching Colours
Ashwin is no stranger to changing franchises. After beginning his IPL journey with CSK in 2009, he remained a key part of the Dhoni-led squad for eight consecutive seasons (2008–2015). He later represented Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals before making his much-publicised homecoming to CSK in 2024.
Over his IPL career, Ashwin has played 221 matches, taking 187 wickets at an economy rate of 7.29 and scoring 833 runs with a strike rate of 118. Those numbers, combined with his tactical cricketing mind, mean he will have no shortage of suitors if he becomes available in the market.
The CSK Academy Role — Another Clue?
Adding to the chatter is Ashwin’s role outside the playing field. He has served as the Director of Operations at the CSK Academy for the past year, overseeing talent development and cricket programmes. However, if he joins another franchise, continuing in that position could lead to a conflict of interest.
Industry insiders believe Ashwin is keen to avoid such complications, which further fuels speculation that a separation from CSK is imminent.
Could an Ashwin-Samson Swap Really Happen?
The idea of a player-for-player trade involving two high-profile names isn’t unheard of in IPL history — but it’s always a tricky affair. While fan theories on social media are already picturing Samson in the yellow jersey and Ashwin back in RR colours, official negotiations remain behind closed doors.
If such a deal were to happen, it would mark one of the most significant player moves in recent IPL seasons, not just for the cricketing impact but also for the marketing buzz it would generate.
Fans React — Entertainment on and off the Field
As soon as Ashwin posted the teaser, fans flooded the comments section with theories, jokes, and predictions. Some believe the players are simply having fun and trolling the rumour mill. Others think the video might be a cleverly timed soft announcement of things to come.
One fan wrote, “Ashwin is not just an off-spinner, he’s a master of spinning stories too!” Another quipped, “If this trade happens, IPL 2025 will start with a bang before the first ball is even bowled.”
The Bigger Picture — IPL’s Off-Season Drama
This exchange between Ashwin and Samson highlights an important aspect of the IPL: the off-season is as much about drama, rumours, and social media banter as it is about cricket. With team combinations, trade windows, and auctions looming, even a 20-second video can spark nationwide debates.
Both players are leaders in their own right — Samson as RR’s captain and Ashwin as a senior statesman with years of international experience. If either or both of them switch teams, it could significantly alter the balance of the 2025 IPL season.
What’s Next?
For now, neither CSK nor RR has issued any confirmation or denial regarding the players’ futures. With the IPL auction and trade deadlines approaching, official announcements could drop anytime. Until then, fans will have to keep decoding cryptic videos and social media posts for hints.
Whether this playful banter was just two friends having a laugh or a subtle nod to an upcoming blockbuster trade, one thing is certain — the cricketing world will be watching closely.