The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are reportedly in active discussions with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to orchestrate a significant trade ahead of the IPL 2026 season, with Sanju Samson potentially swapping Jaipur for Chennai in exchange for CSK's veteran all-rounder, Ravindra Jadeja. Adding another layer to the developing story, reports suggest that England all-rounder Sam Curran might also be included in the trade, heading to Rajasthan.
A senior CSK official confirmed the franchise's strong interest in acquiring Samson, stating that discussions are ongoing, while Rajasthan Royals are carefully considering the offer. "Everyone knows we are interested in getting Sanju. We have expressed our interest of procuring him in this trading window. RR is yet to confirm as their management said they are weighing the options. We are hopeful Sanju will play for CSK," the official told PTI.
The potential acquisition of Samson is driven by CSK's desire to bolster their batting lineup and prepare for the future as they approach the twilight of MS Dhoni's IPL career. Samson, who has been a consistent performer for Rajasthan Royals for 11 years and has captained the side since IPL 2021, is viewed as an ideal long-term wicketkeeping option for CSK, providing stability behind the stumps for years to come.
Former India batter Mohammed Kaif believes that MS Dhoni would be willing to let go of Ravindra Jadeja if it benefits CSK's future. Kaif suggested that Dhoni's primary focus is on winning, and he would not hesitate to make tough decisions, even if it means parting ways with a long-time teammate. "For Dhoni, making the team win is the biggest goal. If he is coming to play again, he will be thinking CSK finished 10th in the standings last year. He is a man of pride; hence, his biggest goal will be to make the team win another trophy. A team cannot win the trophy based on one player," Kaif stated. He also added that Jadeja won't be missed as much in the bowling department, as spinners like Noor Ahmed will be effective in the middle overs.
However, the possible trade isn't without its complexities. Recent reports indicate that Rajasthan Royals are now seeking an additional player from CSK along with Jadeja, with a preference for Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana. CSK, however, is reportedly reluctant to include Pathirana in the deal and is instead pushing for Sam Curran to be part of the trade.
Ravindra Jadeja has been an integral part of CSK, contributing significantly with both bat and ball and even captaining the team briefly in 2022. Trading him could potentially disrupt the team's balance and spark negative reactions from the franchise's large fan base. Jadeja was initially selected by the Rajasthan Royals in 2008 for the inaugural IPL season.
Before agreeing to the trade, CSK reportedly held discussions with MS Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, and head coach Stephen Fleming to get Jadeja's consent. For the trade to be official, both franchises need to submit their interest to the IPL governing council, obtain written consent from the players, and finalize an agreement approved by the governing body. If the trade goes through, Rajasthan Royals would benefit from Jadeja's experience.
Notably, Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni had a disagreement regarding fielding placements a few games before the IPL 2023 final. Jadeja had been handed the captaincy by CSK in IPL 2023 but was later replaced by Dhoni after an underwhelming performance. Despite a challenging start to IPL 2025, Jadeja reassured fans of better days ahead, dedicating an Instagram story to MS Dhoni.
