It is said that the Chennai Super Kings are contemplating a major player exchange deal: the offer of elder statesman Ravindra Jadeja in exchange for Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.

Reportedly, talks are still underway between CSK and RR, with Rajasthan yet to give its final approval. Both Jadeja and Samson command contracts of ₹18 crore with their respective franchises.

Jadeja’s Future With CSK in Question

Ravindra Jadeja, 36, has been a core member of CSK for over a decade, even captaining the team briefly. However, with Chennai eyeing a younger leadership option and a solid wicketkeeper-batter, the franchise is reportedly open to trading him as part of a strategic rebuild before the upcoming season.

CSK–RR Trade Talks Gain Momentum

According to sources, CSK has already conveyed a proposal for the direct swap of Jadeja for Sanju Samson to enhance the batsmanship and leadership core. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals have reportedly put forth a counter-offer asking for Jadeja plus the South African youngster Dewald Brevis for Samson.

CSK, however, are unwilling to consider any other player or further inclusions and remain adamant about sticking to the one-for-one swap proposal. The ball is now firmly in Rajasthan Royals’ court.

If the trade successfully goes through, Sanju Samson might see himself donning the yellow jersey in IPL 2026, while Jadeja might return to his old stomping ground at the Royals in spectacular fashion, where his first IPL footsteps were laid in 2008.

Background

Earlier, reports hinted that Delhi Capitals had also shown interest in acquiring Sanju Samson, offering Tristan Stubbs in exchange — a deal that didn’t materialize.

With the IPL 2026 mini auction expected to be held in mid-December, this potential CSK–RR trade could be the biggest pre-auction move of the season.