In a massive player trade involving top stars ahead of the IPL 2026 retention deadline, Sanju Samson left the Rajasthan Royals to join the Chennai Super Kings, while Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran are going to the Royals. This transfer is among the biggest roster reshuffles in recent years, with many more in store for the entire IPL.
What's going on?
Sanju Samson - CSK: With reports of an ₹18 crore transfer, Royals' long-time captain Samson finds a move to CSK.
Ravindra Jadeja - RR: He returns to his first franchise in the IPL. His valuation, as per multiple reports, is ₹14 crore.
Sam Curran - RR: In exchange, England all-rounder Sam Curran moves to Rajasthan, adding strength to RR's already formidable all-round lineup.
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CSK's Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan termed the call as one of the toughest decisions they had to make while underlining the emotional and strategic weight of releasing a veteran like Jadeja.
Why this trade matters?
The trade matters for CSK as Samson's arrival addresses the long-term succession plan for life after MS Dhoni. His bat, leadership, and keeping skills make him an asset.
For RR, Jadeja brings experience, leadership, and finishing ability, while Curran adds flexibility with his batting and bowling.
The trade comes just before retention lists are due, with the mini-auction scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, and teams clearly reshaping aggressively.
Other moves confirmed on retention day with the Samson–Jadeja–Curran deal, Mohammed Shami is going to Lucknow Super Giants for ₹10 crore. Arjun Tendulkar will also move to LSG for ₹30 lakh. Mayank Markande returns to Mumbai Indians for ₹30 lakh, while Donovan Ferreira goes back to RR for ₹1 crore.
What's next?
Retention lists are expected to be officially announced by 5 PM today.
With the trade window open until December 9, and mini-auction on December 16, more surprises can be expected. The Rs 120 crore purse per team means plenty of firepower for the franchises to strategise.
Trade confirmed: Multiple reliable sources, including India Today and ESPNcricinfo, confirm the Sanju Samson–Jadeja swap is real.
Fees: There are consistent reports about the price being ₹18 crore for Samson and ₹14 crore for Jadeja.
Curran involvement: The involvement of Curran, too, moving to RR as part of the trade, is confirmed.
Also Read | Big boost for Lucknow Super Giants, Mohammed Shami joins the squad ahead of retentions
Approval process: According to the IPL's own website, expressions of interest have been filed and player consents obtained.
Some earlier reports suggested that the trade was not yet final because of overseas quota and budget issues. As with any trade, final ratification is subject to approval from the IPL Governing Council and BCCI, though recent reports say this deal has been cleared by the BCCI.
