In a stunning twist just hours before the IPL 2026 retention deadline, the league witnessed one of its wildest trade moves ever. Rajasthan Royals’ long-time captain Sanju Samson has been traded to Chennai Super Kings, while Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran will now wear pink for RR. The blockbuster double-swap — confirmed in the IPL’s official advisory — has instantly shaken up the balance of two of the most influential franchises.
The announcement dropped minutes before teams began filing their final retained and released lists for the new season. With the trade window still open until December 9 and the mini-auction set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, more surprises could be coming.
A Trade That Redefines Two Franchises
Samson Joins CSK at ₹18 Crore
Sanju Samson, the heart of Rajasthan Royals for over a decade, will now play for Chennai Super Kings at the same ₹18 crore price tag.
He joined RR as a teenager in 2013 and went on to become their leading run-scorer across all formats, racking up 4,219 runs in 155 matches with two centuries.
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Samson’s captaincy era saw RR reach the 2022 IPL final — their first since the iconic 2008 title. His best season came in 2024, where he smashed 531 runs with remarkable consistency. Even in IPL 2025, despite missing the second half due to injury, he averaged over 35.
For CSK, Samson represents a fresh core starting point in the post-Dhoni era. With his peak years ahead, the franchise sees him as a long-term anchor.
Rajasthan Royals Reunite with Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja returns to the franchise where it all began for him in 2008–09. Valued now at ₹14 crore, Jadeja leaves CSK after cementing himself as one of their all-time greats — their top wicket-taker (143 wickets), a clutch middle-order batter, and the man behind their unforgettable 2023 title-winning finish.
He has played 254 IPL games — fifth most in history — and won three trophies with CSK.
For RR, Jadeja brings leadership, all-round reliability, and the kind of big-match experience that can instantly elevate their squad.
Sam Curran Also Heads to RR
The third leg of the mega trade sees England all-rounder Sam Curran move to Rajasthan Royals at ₹2.4 crore. Curran, known for his fearless batting and clever bowling variations, has 997 runs and 59 wickets in 64 IPL matches.
His role at RR is expected to be more defined, especially in middle overs and death-overs scenarios.
Other Confirmed Trades Ahead of IPL 2026
Mohd Shami → Lucknow Super Giants (₹10 crore)
The Purple Cap winner of 2023 reunites with KL Rahul at LSG, adding world-class experience to their pace attack.
Mayank Markande → Mumbai Indians (₹30 lakh)
Returns to the franchise where he made an impressive debut in 2018.
Arjun Tendulkar → Lucknow Super Giants (₹30 lakh)
Arjun makes a fresh start after two seasons with Mumbai Indians.
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Nitish Rana → Delhi Capitals (₹4.2 crore)
Rana returns to his home turf franchise, bringing middle-order strength and leadership depth.
Donovan Ferreira → Rajasthan Royals (₹1 crore)
RR bring back the South African power-hitter at a slightly higher revised price.
What Happens Next?
- Retention lists go public today by 5 PM.
- Trade window stays open until December 9.
- Mini Auction takes place in Abu Dhabi on December 16.
With teams holding a ₹120-crore purse and no cap on the number of retentions, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in IPL history.
