IPL 2026: Ravindra Jadeja Returns To Rajasthan Royals After 16 Years, Sanju Samson Joins Chennai Super Kings

In a massive, three-way IPL trade ahead of the 2026 auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured the services of star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for ₹18 crore, while Rajasthan Royals (RR) acquired all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and England’s Sam Curran in the exchange.

November 15, 2025: The Indian Premier League (IPL) trade window has exploded with a monumental deal as Sanju Samson, the long-time captain and highest run-scorer for the Rajasthan Royals (RR), officially joined the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

The blockbuster move is an intricate trade that sees three high-profile players move franchises:

1. Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper-Batter) moves from RR to CSK for his existing fee of ₹18 crore.
2. Ravindra Jadeja (All-rounder) moves from CSK to RR. His fee has been revised from ₹18 crore to ₹14 crore.
3. Sam Curran (All-rounder) moves from CSK to RR at his existing fee of ₹2.4 crore.

Samson’s Shock Departure from RR

The trade marks an emotional end to Sanju Samson’s tenure with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had become the team’s most capped player, all-time leading run-scorer, and most successful captain. Under his leadership, RR finished as runners-up in the IPL 2022 season.

Despite being retained for a high fee ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, the 30-year-old wicketkeeper will now represent CSK, bringing his aggressive batting and captaincy experience to the Yellow Army.

Jadeja’s Return to Rajasthan

The move also signals a homecoming for Ravindra Jadeja, who began his IPL career with the Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural 2008 season. Jadeja leaves CSK as their all-time highest wicket-taker and one of the most celebrated figures in the franchise’s history, having spent 13 seasons with the team.

The all-rounder’s return to RR is expected to stabilize the middle-order and add significant depth to their spin bowling unit.

Sam Curran Lands at RR

In a key part of the exchange, England all-rounder Sam Curran will also head to the Rajasthan Royals. Curran has a history with both CSK and Punjab Kings and will provide RR with a dynamic overseas option known for his batting depth and left-arm seam bowling.

The official statement from the IPL confirmed the exchange and the new financial details for the players involved. This high-value trade significantly reshapes the landscape of both teams and sets a fever pitch for the upcoming IPL 2026 auction