Sanju Samson is set to don the yellow jersey of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026, in a blockbuster trade deal with Rajasthan Royals (RR).
The move has created a buzz in the cricketing world as it marks
one of the biggest player swaps in IPL history. According to multiple reports, RR will receive two all-rounders in return - Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran - both key players from CSK's squad.
Samson, who has been with Rajasthan Royals since his IPL debut and has captained the team since IPL 2021, reportedly sought a change after the 2025 season. With CSK eager to secure a future leader and bolster their top order batting, Samson emerges as a perfect candidate to succeed veteran MS Dhoni, who is nearing retirement.
The Rajasthan Royals management valued Jadeja and Curran for their all-round abilities and leadership qualities and have welcomed the potential addition to their roster. Jadeja himself had started his career with RR and spent significant successful years at CSK, also serving as captain before Dhoni resumed the role.
While the trade deal is yet to be officially confirmed, the franchises have sought formal player consents and sent the proposal to the IPL Governing Council. Fans await official announcements before the November 15 retention deadline.
"Consent has been obtained from all three players and the Expression of Interest process has been initiated. All three have signed on the dotted line, but the process will take some time to culminate," a franchise official said to Cricbuzz.
Rajasthan were also in talks with Delhi Capitals for a possible move, but it is set for Sanju as the Kerala-born will be playing for the Super Kings next season.
Ravindra Jadeja, whose career started with the Royals, joined CSK in 2013. The veteran all-rounder is now nearing a return to his old abode, where his last stint ended amid controversial circumstances. Curran was part of the Punjab Kings side before returning to CSK, but the Englishman is set to find a new home as well.
