In a landmark event that underscored the burgeoning financial landscape of regional cricket, Sanju Samson, the dynamic Kerala batter and captain of Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), made history on Saturday by becoming the most expensive player ever sold in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) auction. Kochi Blue Tigers secured his services in a move that sent ripples through the state’s cricketing fraternity and set a new benchmark for player valuations in the tournament.
Sanju Samson tops the KCL Auction charts
The acquisition of Samson for ₹26.8 lakhs shattered the previous KCL record by a significant margin. The prior highest bid stood at ₹7.4 lakh, paid by Trivandrum Royals for the promising M.S. Akhil. Samson’s price tag, nearly four times that of the previous record, highlights his immense appeal, both as a cricketing talent and a local icon. The 30-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who was notably absent from the inaugural edition of the KCL last year, was a marquee name among the 39 players in the coveted Category A pool, making him one of the most sought-after assets in the auction. His presence in the KCL is expected to elevate the league’s profile, drawing more spectators and enhancing its competitive spirit.
The bidding war for Samson was intense, reflecting the strategic importance teams placed on securing a player of his calibre. The Kochi Blue Tigers, a franchise clearly committed to building a formidable squad, demonstrated their intent by going all out for the Kerala native. This record-breaking sum not only signifies Samson’s individual value but also indicates the growing financial muscle and professionalization of the Kerala Cricket League.
Also READ: 3 teams that can target Sanju Samson during IPL 2026 Player Trade Window
Samson’s redemption and revival in the KCL
For Samson, the KCL stint offers a crucial opportunity for much-needed game time and a chance to regain his rhythm after a challenging period. His recent IPL campaign was unexpectedly truncated due to an injury, limiting him to just nine appearances for Rajasthan Royals. During this period, he managed to accumulate 285 runs at a strike rate of 140.39, with only one half-century to his name. The Royals, under his captaincy, finished a disappointing ninth in the 10-team table, a performance that undoubtedly left Samson seeking avenues to bounce back. The KCL provides an ideal stage for him to fine-tune his skills, build confidence, and demonstrate his leadership qualities away from the intense glare of the IPL.
This upcoming appearance in a Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) overseen tournament holds particular significance for Samson. It marks his first major involvement since a controversial incident in December 2024, when he was controversially dropped from Kerala’s Vijay Hazare Trophy squad. The decision stemmed from his failure to report for a preparatory camp held in Wayanad, a move that sparked considerable debate among fans and pundits. Ironically, Kerala went on to achieve a historic milestone in his absence, reaching the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in their history, ultimately finishing as runners-up to Vidarbha. Last year, Samson had opted out of the inaugural KCL edition, despite being announced as its brand ambassador, citing a need to prioritize his international commitments. His return to the KCL, therefore, is viewed by many as an opportunity for him to reconnect with state cricket and potentially pave his way back into national contention.
