In a remarkable turn of events, high-profile player trades have reshaped team rosters in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the 2026 season. Notably, Sanju Samson has been traded from Rajasthan Royals (RR) to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
Key Details of the Trade
The trade marks a significant moment in IPL history, involving substantial sums and notable players. Below is a brief overview of the financial aspects:
- Sanju Samson to CSK for INR 18 crore
- Ravindra Jadeja’s fee adjusted to INR 14 crore
- Sam Curran’s fee remains unchanged at INR 2.4 crore
Player Backgrounds
Sanju Samson led the Rajasthan Royals from 2021 until last season. After expressing a desire for a fresh start, he has transferred to CSK. “Rajasthan Royals gave me my first platform and my first taste of victory,” Jadeja mentioned, emphasizing his emotional connection to RR. His return is especially poignant, having started his IPL career with the franchise in 2008.
For Curran, this marks his third franchise in the IPL after stints with CSK and Punjab Kings from 2019 to 2025.
Statements from Management
Kumar Sangakkara, RR’s director of cricket, praised Jadeja’s return to the team. He stated, “His experience and competitive spirit will add immense value.” Meanwhile, CSK managing director Kasi Viswanathan commented on the mutual decision to trade Jadeja and Curran, thanking them for their contributions.
Other Trades in IPL 2026
The IPL 2026 trades featured several notable movements beyond the RR and CSK exchange:
- Mohammed Shami moves from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for INR 10 crore.
- Nitish Rana transitions from RR to Delhi Capitals (DC) at INR 4.2 crore.
- Sandeep Markande returns to Mumbai Indians (MI) from KKR, maintaining his INR 30 lakh fee.
- Ferreira, the South African all-rounder, returns to RR from DC with a fee increase to INR 1 crore.
- Tendulkar shifts from MI to LSG at his existing fee of INR 30 lakh.
These trades highlight the dynamic nature of the IPL, creating new opportunities and strategies as teams prepare for the upcoming season.
