"Jadeja coming back to the Royals is incredibly special"
The IPL has confirmed one of its biggest-ever trades. Rajasthan Royals have sent Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
Samson joins CSK for the same Rs. 18 crore fee he held at RR. Jadeja’s revised fee is Rs. 14 crore. Curran remains on his original Rs. 2.4 crore contract.
In an RR statement, Jadeja said:
“Rajasthan Royals gave me my first platform and my first taste of victory.
“Coming back feels special – it’s not just a team for me, it’s home. Rajasthan Royals is where I won my first IPL, and I hope to win more with this current group of players.”
Samson spent 11 years with RR. He had indicated after IPL 2025 that he wanted a change and asked to be released.
Jadeja returns to the franchise where his IPL journey began in 2008. He had been a core part of CSK since 2012, apart from the two suspended seasons. His stint as CSK captain in 2022 ended early after a difficult start.
Curran will now join his third IPL team. He has alternated between CSK and Punjab Kings across several seasons.
RR director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara praised Jadeja’s return:
“Jadeja coming back to the Royals is incredibly special for all of us. He understands the franchise and the fans, having been part of RR’s IPL-winning campaign.
“Over the years, he has grown into a player who can influence the game in every department. His experience, composure, and competitive edge will add immense value to our group.”
Sangakkara continued: “Sam brings a different but equally important dimension.
“He’s fearless, adaptable, and thrives in pressure situations with both bat and ball.
“Together, Jadeja and Sam give us balance, leadership, and the kind of match-winning depth we want as we build for the future.”
Aaj rumour nahi, headline likhna. Ravindra ?????????? Jadeja is coming home ??? pic.twitter.com/XJT5b5plCy
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 15, 2025
CSK managing director Kasi Viswanathan said the trade followed detailed talks with the players.
Viswanathan said: “The decision was taken with mutual understanding with both Jadeja and Curran.
“We are deeply grateful for Jadeja’s extraordinary contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. We wish both Jadeja and Curran the best for the future.
“We also welcome Sanju Samson, whose skill set and achievements complement our ambitions.
“This decision has been made with great thought, respect, and a long-term vision.”
Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami will play for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2026 after being traded by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Shami, the second-most expensive acquisition for SRH ahead of the IPL 2025 season at Rs. 10 crore, will move to LSG at his existing fee.
The 2026 IPL will get underway from March, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru looking to defend their title.
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