Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings have completed a significant player trade ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Sanju Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter and former captain of Rajasthan Royals, will now don the yellow jersey of CSK, while Ravindra Jadeja returns to the Royals after 16 years. The trade was officially confirmed on November 15, 2025, just before the deadline for player retentions ahead of the upcoming auction.

Samson, who has been a key player for the Royals since his debut in 2013, expressed his desire to move on during pre-season discussions. He will join CSK at his existing fee of INR 18 crore. In exchange, Jadeja, who has been a standout performer for CSK, will receive a reduced salary of INR 14 crore at Rajasthan Royals. Jadeja's return marks a notable shift, as he began his IPL career with the Royals before becoming synonymous with CSK.

As part of the trade, England all-rounder Sam Curran will also move to Rajasthan Royals, joining at his current fee of INR 2.4 crore. The Royals had initially sought Dewald Brevis in the deal but ultimately settled on Curran.

In addition to this major swap, the IPL announced other trades, including Mohammed Shami moving from Sunrisers Hyderabad to Lucknow Super Giants, and Arjun Tendulkar transferring from Mumbai Indians to LSG. The complete list of retained players ahead of the December 16 auction will be revealed later today.

This trade marks a new chapter for both Samson and Jadeja, with CSK looking to strengthen its squad and the Royals aiming to build on their legacy with experienced players.

Key trades confirmed include: - Sanju Samson from RR to CSK - Ravindra Jadeja from CSK to RR - Sam Curran from CSK to RR - Mohammed Shami from SRH to LSG - Arjun Tendulkar from MI to LSG - Mayank Markande from KKR to MI - Nitish Rana from RR to DC - Donovan Ferreira from DC to RR