In what could be one of the biggest transfer stories in IPL history, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are reportedly open to trading their captain and star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
However, the Royals have set their terms - they want Ravindra Jadeja and Dewald Brevis in return, according to a report by Cricbuzz.
Sanju Samson, who has been the face of the Royals for several seasons, was retained for ₹18 crore before the IPL 2025 mega auction. Similarly, Jadeja was retained by CSK for the same amount, continuing his long association with the franchise that began in 2012. Interestingly, Jadeja started his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals in 2008 before becoming one of Chennai's most iconic
players.
The report suggests that while both teams have engaged in active discussions, the deal remains at a standstill. "Both Jadeja and Samson are ₹18 crore players and the deal could well have been sealed by now. However, it is understood that Rajasthan Royals are not yet agreeable to a straight swap. The franchise is believed to be insisting on the inclusion of another player, which could eventually prove to be the sticking point," the report mentioned.
That additional player, as it turns out, is South African batting sensation Dewald Brevis, who joined CSK midway through the 2025 season as a replacement for pacer Gurjapneet Singh. Brevis impressed in limited appearances, showing flashes of the explosive potential that earned him the nickname "Baby AB. " His performances in global T20 leagues have only strengthened his reputation as one of the brightest young batters in the world.
While CSK are reportedly open to discussing Jadeja's transfer, they are unwilling to add Brevis to the deal. Chennai's management views Brevis as a long-term investment, especially after the team's disappointing 2025 campaign, where they finished at the bottom of the table for the first time in franchise history.
Meanwhile, there were also rumours suggesting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) could release South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen ahead of the auction. However, reports indicate that SRH have no plans to part ways with either Klaasen or Ishan Kishan.
If the Samson-Jadeja-Brevis deal does go through, it could mark a massive shake-up in the IPL ecosystem - one that may redefine the balance of power between two of the league's most storied franchises.
