IPL 2026: In what could turn out to be one of the biggest IPL trade deals in history, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are reportedly in advanced discussions over a potential Sanju Samson trade, involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
However, the high-profile transfer has hit a roadblock after RR expressed dissatisfaction with the proposed offer, particularly with Curran’s inclusion, according to The Indian Express.
CSK and RR Reopen Sanju Samson Trade Talks
The Sanju Samson-to-CSK rumor has been circulating for months, and now it appears closer than ever to reality. Sources claim that Samson had informal talks with CSK officials earlier this year during the Major League Cricket (MLC) season in the United States.
After Samson informed RR management that he wanted to end his seven-year stint with the franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 mini-auction, the Royals reached out to Chennai to explore a possible trade.
Initially, the talks broke down as CSK refused to release key players. But in recent days, both franchises have reignited negotiations — with CSK offering two players: Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, in exchange for Samson.
Rajasthan Royals Not Satisfied With CSK’s Offer
According to reports, while RR are pleased with the inclusion of Ravindra Jadeja, they are not content with Sam Curran being part of the trade. Instead, the franchise has demanded Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who has become one of the IPL’s most promising fast bowlers.
However, CSK are unwilling to part with Pathirana, considering him an essential player for their future plans. This disagreement has created a major twist in the Sanju Samson transfer saga, delaying what could have been a historic player swap.
Jadeja’s Future at CSK Uncertain After MS Dhoni Talks
The report also revealed that Ravindra Jadeja is ready to leave CSK, but only after detailed conversations with MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and head coach Stephen Fleming.
Dhoni reportedly had a personal discussion with Jadeja to understand his thoughts about a possible move to Rajasthan. Only after Jadeja gave his nod did the franchise begin formal talks with RR.
“Dhoni was involved in the discussions with Jadeja to gauge his interest, and only after the all-rounder agreed did the trade talks move forward,” The Indian Express report mentioned.
This development indicates that CSK’s long-standing bond with Jadeja — a player who has been crucial to their success — might finally come to an end.
Rajasthan Royals Eyeing Indian Core Strength
Rajasthan’s management has made it clear that they want to strengthen their Indian core, especially their spin and all-round departments. They were initially keen on a deal that included both Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube, but CSK rejected the idea.
Chennai then offered Sam Curran as a replacement, but RR were not satisfied. Their preference remains Pathirana, the Sri Lankan speedster who was instrumental in CSK’s death bowling setup.
A Blockbuster IPL Trade in the Making?
If completed, this trade could reshape both franchises. CSK would get a proven Indian captain-batter in Sanju Samson — someone who could eventually lead the team after Dhoni — while RR would secure one of India’s best all-rounders in Jadeja.
However, with RR still holding out for Pathirana and CSK refusing to release him, the deal remains in limbo. With the IPL 2025 mini-auction just weeks away, time is running out for both franchises to finalize their retention and trade plans.
Fans across the cricket world are eagerly watching what could be the most dramatic trade in IPL history — one that might see Ravindra Jadeja’s emotional exit from CSK and Sanju Samson’s new beginning in yellow.
Key Highlights:
- Ravindra Jadeja ready to leave CSK after talks with MS Dhoni
- CSK offered Jadeja and Sam Curran to RR for Sanju Samson
- RR not happy with Curran, want Matheesha Pathirana instead
- Dhoni and Fleming personally discussed Jadeja’s move
- Sanju Samson eager to leave RR after seven years
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