Major IPL Trade: Sanju Samson Eyes Move to CSK

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a groundbreaking move within the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Rajasthan Royals (RR) are on the verge of trading their captain and wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). In exchange, RR is expected to receive star allrounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. Should this deal be finalized, it has the potential to reshape both squads as they prepare for the upcoming IPL season.

According to sources, negotiations between RR and CSK regarding this trade have already taken place involving all three players. However, as of yet, neither team has made any official announcements. Both franchises will need to formally communicate their intent to the IPL governing council, listing the players involved in the trade. Following written consent from all players, the deal can be finalized and approved by the governing council.

Sanju Samson has served as a loyal and key figure for Rajasthan Royals over the past 11 seasons, taking on the role of captain since 2021. He initially joined RR as a promising young talent and swiftly evolved into a cornerstone of the team. Under his leadership in 2022, RR reached the IPL finals for the first time since 2008, greatly aided by insights from team director, Kumar Sangakkara.

Throughout his tenure as captain, Samson has led RR in 67 matches, achieving 33 wins alongside 33 losses. His performance in the 2024 IPL season was notable, accumulating 531 runs with an average of 48.27 and striking at 153.47—marking his top season yet. Samson stands as RR’s all-time leading run-scorer with 4,027 runs and holds the record for the most catches (149) in the franchise, along with a joint-highest individual score of 124. However, his 2025 season was marred by injury, preventing him from participating in the latter half as RR's campaign faltered, ending in ninth place.

After this disappointing outing, Samson reportedly expressed his desire for a new opportunity outside of RR. Following this, the management began discussions with other franchises, ultimately engaging in talks with CSK, focusing on a swap involving Jadeja and Curran.

Ravindra Jadeja has etched his name as one of the most iconic figures in CSK’s history since joining in 2012, contributing significantly to three title victories. He had a standout role in the 2023 final against Gujarat Titans, hitting the winning runs, and his best bowling performance came in that same year with 20 wickets. In the 2025 season, he amassed 301 runs, showcasing his ongoing worth to the team.

Jadeja has appeared in 254 IPL matches—ranking fifth in the league's history—and is CSK’s highest wicket-taker with 143 dismissals. He shares the record for the most Player-of-the-Match awards (16) for the team alongside MS Dhoni. Although he temporarily captained the team in 2022, he stepped down after a challenging start to the season.

Sam Curran, known for his allrounder skills, began his IPL journey with Punjab Kings in 2019, later rejoining the team in 2023 after a record purchase of INR 18.5 crore. He also played for CSK during the 2020 and 2021 seasons, demonstrating his prowess with the bat and ball. CSK brought him back in 2025 for INR 2.4 crore, although his season yielded modest results, scoring 114 runs and taking just one wicket over five matches.

Notably, Ravindra Jadeja began his IPL career with the Rajasthan Royals back in 2008 at just 19 years of age, contributing to the franchise's first title under Shane Warne. This potential trade could signify an emotional homecoming for him.

If this transaction proceeds, it would mark a significant transformation in the IPL landscape. Samson could fill the role of successor to the legendary MS Dhoni at CSK, his leadership and batting expertise ideally poised to assist the team in transitioning into a new era. Conversely, for RR, Jadeja’s seasoned experience and Curran’s all-round skills would reinforce their middle order and bowling lineup.

While both franchises have yet to make any public declarations, the necessary approvals from the IPL governing council remain pending. Nonetheless, the anticipation among fans is palpable. If confirmed, this trade will likely stand as one of the most significant player exchanges in IPL history, reshaping the competitive dynamics as the league approaches IPL 2026.