Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are on the verge of completing a blockbuster trade ahead of IPL 2026, where Sanju Samson will move
to CSK in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran heading to RR.
This deal, now in the mandatory expression of interest stage with the IPL governing council, has the consent of all three players involved and is awaiting final regulatory approval. Samson, RR's captain and a prolific wicketkeeper-batter, had indicated his desire for a change after IPL 2025, making this move timely for both franchises.
Samson, who has been tipped with a move away from the Royals, is expected to join the Super Kings. For CSK, acquiring Samson is a strategic decision aimed at strengthening their middle order and finding a long-term successor to MS Dhoni's leadership. Jadeja, a crucial part of CSK's core and a key player in their title wins, is expected to bolster RR's lineup. Sam Curran is also part of the negotiations, as the Englishman is also expected to join the Royals.
Amid this, Chennai Super Kings wished Sanju Samson on social media on his birthday. Samson, who has turned 31 on Tuesday (November 11), was wished by CSK with a special message.
"More power to you, Sanju! Wishing you a Super Birthday," CSK wished on Instagram on Tuesday.
This has further heightened the speculation about Sanju's impending move to Chennai. The India star was part of the Australia T20I series and is now expected to feature in the domestic competitions.
Rajasthan Royals also wished their talisman on his birthday. Although the Kerala-born India player is set to leave the Royals, the franchise posted a special birthday video for their soon-to-be former Chetta!
Samson is currently in Kerala and has been training ahead of the South Africa T20I series, of which he is expected to be a part of.
