In a significant trade deal ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Sanju Samson has officially joined Chennai Super Kings (CSK), while Ravindra Jadeja is set to return to Rajasthan Royals (RR). The announcement, made on Saturday, finalizes a move that has been heavily discussed and anticipated by fans and analysts alike.

Sanju Samson will join CSK for his existing league fee of INR 18 crore. The wicketkeeper-batsman has played 177 IPL matches and will represent only his third franchise since his debut in 2013. Except for the 2016 and 2017 seasons, when he played for Delhi Capitals, Samson has been a core member of the Rajasthan Royals. CSK has been keen on acquiring Samson for approximately three years, viewing him as an ideal Indian wicketkeeper to strengthen their top order.

Ravindra Jadeja, a seasoned all-rounder, will return to the Rajasthan Royals, the team where he began his IPL career. As part of the agreement, Jadeja's league fee has been revised from INR 18 crore to INR 14 crore. Jadeja has been a key player for CSK since 2012, participating in 185 IPL matches and 14 Champions League T20 games for the franchise. During his time with CSK, he scored 2000 runs and took over 140 wickets with an economy rate of under eight.

In addition to Jadeja, England all-rounder Sam Curran will also move from CSK to Rajasthan Royals for his existing league fee of INR 2.4 crore. The 27-year-old has played 64 IPL matches and has previously represented Punjab Kings.

According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) approved the trade after resolving initial technical issues. Both Samson and Jadeja have reportedly agreed to the move, believing it serves everyone's interests.

Manoj Badale, the Lead Owner of Rajasthan Royals, acknowledged Samson's transformation from a young player to a respected leader in India, while Kumar Sangakkara, the Director of Cricket, praised Samson's leadership and dedication. The Royals also expressed their excitement of welcoming Jadeja and Curran, emphasizing the leadership and match-winning capabilities they bring to the team.

Another significant trade involves Mohammed Shami, who will join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for his existing fee of INR 10 crore. Shami, who missed the 2024 season due to injury, won the Purple Cap in 2023 with 28 wickets for Gujarat Titans.

Some observers believe that Rajasthan Royals emerged as the winners in the trade, gaining both Jadeja and Curran. One IPL CEO noted that it was shocking that CSK let go of a franchise player like Jadeja so easily, especially with MS Dhoni nearing retirement. CSK had been pursuing Samson for three years, viewing him as a wicketkeeper who could strengthen the top order.

Ravindra Jadeja had a brief stint as captain in 2022, and despite previous tensions, his departure from CSK was amicable. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri dismissed doubts about Jadeja's focus, emphasizing his experience and top-class performance.