Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar Ravindra Jadeja could move to Rajasthan Royals (RR) before IPL 2026.
Ravindra Jadeja Which Team In IPL 2026
This isn’t a simple trade; instead, there’s a plan to bring Sanju Samson to CSK in exchange for Jadeja and Sam Curran.
Jadeja spent 12 years with CSK, where he was not just a player but the heart of the team. If this trade happens now, CSK will not only lose an all-rounder but also a symbol of loyalty.
Jadeja is 36 years old, and it’s a time of transition in the IPL. CSK needs a new generation after MS Dhoni. Sanju Samson, at 31, can lead the team for a long time.
This deal seems reasonable on paper, but cricket isn’t just a game of numbers. A team like CSK also values emotions. Jadeja has scored over 3,000 runs and taken 140 wickets in the IPL, especially displaying his spin magic at Chepauk.
If RR (Rajasthan Royals) acquires Jadeja, their bowling will be strengthened, but CSK will have to find a new face.
IPL 2026 Team: Will CSK’s old relationship break?
The trade news has shaken fans. Ravindra Jadeja and Curran have given NOCs to CSK, meaning the deal is in the final stages. The IPL 2026 retention list will be released on November 15th, when the details will become clear.
Jadeja will be a homecoming for RR, as he started with RR in 2010. However, CSK acquired him in 2012 and made him a star. Now, this swap will give CSK the opportunity to rebuild their batting core.
With Dhoni’s era over, it’s good to have a captain-material player like Samson. But Jadeja will be missed, as he was a hero in big matches, like the 2023 final.
Ashwin suggestion: Who is CSK’s next big target?
Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin spoke about CSK’s new lineup on his YouTube channel.
He said, “CSK can really strengthen this side. The moment Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja have gone there (to RR), I see Nitish Rana coming into the auction. So, Nitish Rana and Venkatesh Iyer will 100% be on CSK’s radar.
If Samson and Ruturaj open, it’ll be the best thing to happen. At 3, they’ll look at Venkatesh Iyer or Nitish Rana. Brevis and Dube will be at 4 and 5, and then they’ll try to insert Cameron Green at 6 because he has recently batted in the middle order for Australia.”
Ashwin further said, “Venkatesh Iyer has played one or two good innings in Chepauk. However, he is a replica of Shivam Dube with long levers down the ground. But he can play the sweep and reverse sweep.
Nevertheless, someone like Nitish Rana, who is shorter, can reach the square boundaries and use the bounce, and is an attractive option. There is a great chance he will come to CSK.”
Meaning, if Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad open, Nitish Rana or Venkatesh Iyer could fit in at No. 3. Bringing in an all-rounder like Cameron Green at No. 6 would be a smart move.
CSK already has openers like Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway. Young Ayush Mahtre scored 208 runs in IPL 2025, with a strike rate above 185. Together, this will add depth to the batting.
Samson’s arrival will create a flexible order, where he and Gaikwad can change positions. This trade from RR will open a new captaincy race after Samson, with Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal leading the way.
The IPL 2026 mini auction is likely to be held in Abu Dhabi, where CSK will need to make smart purchases. These changes will make the IPL even more exciting.
