CSK and RR Trade: Jadeja for Samson Deal Nears Final Stage

CSK and RR trade talks are nearing a historic conclusion, with both franchises reportedly close to finalising a swap deal involving Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The move has the potential to become one of the most significant player trades in IPL history.

CSK and RR Trade

CSK and RR Trade Reports

According to a report from Cricbuzz, both teams have agreed in principle to exchange the two senior players, who are currently valued at the same salary bracket of ₹18 crore. The move addresses major tactical needs for both sides, although one remaining negotiation point has delayed the official announcement.

Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings recently reopened discussions regarding a potential move for Sanju Samson, with CSK reportedly offering a player swap package. According to The Indian Express, Chennai proposed Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran as part of the deal in an attempt to convince Rajasthan.

Why CSK Want Sanju Samson?

CSK are understood to be preparing for a long-term leadership transition as the franchise moves into the post-Dhoni era. Samson fits the profile of a wicketkeeper-batter who can also lead the side, making him a strong captaincy candidate for the future.

Sanju Samson CSK
Image credit: IPL

Additionally, CSK have lacked a stable middle-order batter capable of switching gears, a role Samson has delivered consistently for RR in recent seasons.

Jadeja to Have a Homecoming at RR

If the deal is finalised, the move will mark a return to Rajasthan Royals for Ravindra Jadeja, who began his IPL journey with the franchise during the league’s first two seasons in 2008 and 2009. His experience, versatility, and all-round ability are expected to add stability to RR’s middle order and spin attack.

Ravindra Jadeja rejects
Image credit: IPL

Brevis Clause Delaying the Trade

While CSK and RR are in agreement over the Samson-Jadeja swap, negotiations have slowed due to Rajasthan Royals’ request to include Dewald Brevis in the trade.

RR owner Manoj Badale is reportedly keen on acquiring the young South African batter, viewing him as a long-term investment. However, CSK are unwilling to release Brevis, who was one of their standout performers last season and is seen as a core player for the franchise going forward.

As a result, if Chennai Super Kings still want to sign Sanju Samson, their only remaining option is an all-cash trade deal — a far more complex negotiation requiring purse balance and valuation alignment between both teams.

RR Also Approached Sunrisers Hyderabad

Reports also suggest that Rajasthan Royals held trade discussions with Sunrisers Hyderabad, offering Samson, but SRH declined. With Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, and Ishan Kishan already forming a strong top-order unit, SRH did not see a strategic need for an additional top-order wicketkeeper-batter.