The most anticipated IPL 2026 trade has been completed, as the Sanju Samson-Ravindra Jadeja trade was successfully finalised; both franchises officially announced on November 15.

In a blockbuster trade deal, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have roped in Wk-Batter Sanju Samson from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran ahead of IPL 2026.

Both franchises have confirmed the news on their social media accounts, indicating one of the biggest trades ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.

Rajasthan Royals have posted a video of representing Ravindra Jadeja’s iconic sword celebration on their X account.

Sanju Samson has amassed 4500 runs throughout his IPL career and brings in a wealth of experience. He is expected to be the successor of MS Dhoni, who is now 44 and in the twilight of his IPL career.

Sanju Samson has previously represented Delhi Capitals apart from the Rajasthan Royals, where he also served as the skipper for five IPL seasons (2021-25). Under his leadership, the Royals even reached the final in the 2022 season, but had to be content with a runners-up position.

Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings has posted Sanju Samson in a yellow jersey with the caption saying, “SANJU SAMSON IS YELLOVE. Tenders welcome, Chetta!”

On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja has been an integral part of CSK since 2012, barring the two editions when the franchise was serving a suspension.

He has won three IPL titles with CSK – 2018, 2021 and 2023 and has over 150 wickets and amassed over 2300 runs for Super Kings.

Jadeja will be returning to the franchise where he began his IPL career Rajasthan Royals, who won the inaugural edition in 2008.

On the other hand, Sam Curran, who has been part of the squad that won the IPL title in 2021, has been with CSK for three seasons – 2020, 2021 and 2025.

Sam Curran has played 28 games for CSK, scoring 356 runs and 23 wickets.

Speaking on the trade, CSK CEO said, “A transition in a team’s journey is never easy. Trading out a player like Ravindra Jadeja, who has been an integral part of the franchise for more than a decade, and Sam Curran was one of the toughest decisions we have taken in the team’s history.”

“The decision was taken with mutual understanding with both Jadeja and Curran. We are deeply grateful for Jadeja’s extraordinary contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. We wish both Jadeja and Curran the best for the future,” added Viswanathan.

“We also welcome Sanju Samson, whose skill set and achievements complement our ambitions. This decision has been made with great thought, respect, and a long-term vision,” concluded Kasi Viswanathan.

With the deadline of announcing the IPL 2026 retained players list set for November 15, the speculations over the retained and released players will come to an end.

With Ravinchandran Ashwin having retired from IPL, CSK will have a decent purse value while entering the IPL 2026 auction, which is likely to be held in mid-December.