After months of speculation, one of the biggest player trades in IPL history looks set to materialize. Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson is on the verge of moving to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with Ravindra Jadeja and one of Sam Curran or Matheesha Pathirana likely to head in the opposite direction.
Ravindra Jadeja + Curran/Pathirana for Samson
According to The Indian Express, the deal is in its final stages and could be sealed before the IPL 2026 retention deadline on November 15. Initially it was reported that RR wanted just Jadeja and Curran. Now, Sri Lanka’s Pathirana is also involved in the talks, as Rajasthan wants to make the most out of this situation.
This development marks a major moment in what has been one of the off-season’s most talked-about stories. Samson, who has been with Rajasthan Royals (RR) for over a decade, had reportedly expressed a desire to leave after the 2025 season. Talks between CSK and Samson’s camp began as early as the Major League Cricket window in the US, where initial discussions were held about him being the long-term successor to MS Dhoni, who turns 45 next year.
The proposed deal, if finalized, would see Jadeja, one of CSK’s longest-serving players, return to the franchise where his IPL journey began in 2008. However, the Royals’ demand for a second player alongside Jadeja made negotiations tricky. Earlier reports indicated that RR wanted Dewald Brevis, but the franchise has now turned its attention to either Sam Curran or Matheesha Pathirana.
Jadeja says yes to CSK exit
While CSK are reluctant to part with Pathirana, discussions have continued with both sides keeping multiple options on the table. Importantly, Jadeja has already given his consent to the move after detailed talks involving Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Stephen Fleming.
If the trade goes through, it will reshape a whole lot of things for both the franchises. Rajasthan Royals would lose their long-time captain and wicketkeeper, but in return, gain two world-class all-rounders who strengthen both spin and pace departments. If they get Pathirana, it would help them in death bowling massively. CSK, meanwhile, would acquire a top-order batter and a potential captaincy successor. Samson and Dhoni in same team! That would be gold for fans in Chennai and Kerala.
Both Jadeja and Samson are valued at INR 18 crore each, while Curran’s inclusion would slightly tilt the scale, adding INR 2.4 crore more to RR’s side. However, Pathirana’s IPL salary at IPL 2025 was a massive Rs 13 crore. It could be tough for RR to lose Samson and also Rs 13 crore from their purse. The trade, pending approval from the IPL Governing Council, will require written consent from all players involved. Once that happens, the official paperwork will follow.
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