Chennai Super Kings have confirmed the departure of Ravindra Jadeja, mentioning it was a tough decision they had to take ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
Ravindra Jadeja's trade from Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
to Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of IPL 2026 marks the end of a remarkable era for one of CSK's most iconic players.
Jadeja, who has been a cornerstone of CSK since 2012, leaving aside the franchise's two-year suspension, is not just a player but a symbol of the team's success and fighting spirit. His departure, approved mutually with CSK captain MS Dhoni, reflects a well-considered decision aimed at benefiting all parties involved.
Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja deals Explained by Kasi Viswanathan
Sanju Samson has joined CSK as a part of the trade deal, and the CSK Managing Director, Kasi Viswanathan, explained the reason behind the move.
"The team management felt the need of a top order Indian batsman and since not many Indian batsmen are going to be available at the auction, we thought that the best way to get an Indian top order batsman would be to go through the trade window and hence we had to take this call," he said on an official CSK announcement video.
He also explained letting Jadeja go was 'the toughest decision' for the CSK hierarchy, who had to sanction the deal for the future.
"It was probably one of the toughest decisions the CSK had to take as team management had to take. Considering the transition of the CSK at this point of time, the team management took the toughest decision," he added.
Jadeja returns to Rajasthan Royals in a homecoming story, rediscovered by RR in their triumphant 2008 season and now back as an accomplished all-rounder poised to bring experience and leadership. While earlier speculation suggested Jadeja might take up the captaincy at RR, reports now indicate that he will assume a senior leadership role without guaranteed captaincy. He has taken a pay cut from his last CSK contract, signaling his commitment and readiness to embrace new challenges with RR.
