In one of the most sensational player swaps in IPL history, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have finalised a blockbuster trade that will see Sanju Samson move to Chennai while Ravindra Jadeja returns to Jaipur. The high-profile exchange, reported by Cricbuzz and now approved by the BCCI, marks one of the biggest franchise decisions ahead of the new season.
According to officials familiar with the negotiations, CSK have included Sam Curran valued at ₹2.4 crore alongside Jadeja, who carries a retained price of ₹18 crore, to complete the multi-player arrangement. Samson’s league fee reportedly matches Jadeja’s at ₹18 crore, making the trade financially balanced while stunning fans across both franchises.
Jadeja, who joined CSK through a surprise bid in 2012, leaves behind a legacy filled with defining moments, including his match-winning cameo in the 2023 IPL final when he smashed a six and a four off the last two balls. His emotional celebration with M.S. Dhoni that night became an iconic CSK memory. Despite brief tension during his short-lived captaincy stint in 2022, Jadeja and CSK appear to have parted ways on amicable terms this time.
The decision, insiders say, was influenced partly by CSK’s changing squad dynamics, including the arrival of Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad and the evolving conditions at Chepauk, which no longer favour spin as heavily as before. Jadeja’s impressive record 185 IPL matches, over 2,000 runs and more than 140 wickets at an economy under eight cements his status as one of the tournament’s greatest all-rounders.
His move marks a homecoming of sorts. Jadeja returns to Rajasthan Royals, where his IPL journey began in 2008. Although he spent only two seasons with the franchise before facing a one-year ban in 2010 over alleged negotiations with another team, he is expected to take up a senior role at his new home. While captaincy is not assured, his presence is likely to be invaluable in a young squad.
CSK, meanwhile, have been actively pursuing Sanju Samson for nearly three years. The franchise has long sought a top-order Indian wicketkeeper-batsman an essential requirement in the post Dhoni era. Samson, who has drawn interest from multiple teams, now becomes a central figure in CSK’s rebuild. For Chennai, his explosive batting, leadership experience and consistency make him an ideal fit.
The BCCI’s final approval came after resolving technical issues around overseas slots in the Royals’ roster. An official announcement is expected soon, though both players have reportedly agreed to the move after discussions with team managements.
With the trade window heating up ahead of the IPL 2025 season, this Samson–Jadeja swap has already become the headline deal of the year reshaping two squads, surprising fans, and adding a fresh twist to one of the league’s most enduring franchises.
