IPL 2026: Sanju Samson Joins CSK, Ravindra Jadeja Returns to Rajasthan Royals in Blockbuster Swap

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has once again lived up to its billing as cricket’s biggest blockbuster, with an unprecedented player exchange shaking up the league ahead of the 2026 season. In a headline-making move, Sanju Samson has officially joined the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), while Ravindra Jadeja makes a stunning return to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) — the franchise where his IPL journey first began in 2008.

This Samson-Jadeja swap deal, finalised after weeks of negotiation, marks one of the most significant player trades in IPL history, altering the balance of two major teams and redefining their leadership and strategy heading into the next edition. Alongside this marquee exchange, several other big names, including Sam Curran, Mohammed Shami, and Arjun Tendulkar, have also switched franchises in a major reshuffle that’s already creating buzz across the cricketing world.

The Samson–Jadeja Swap — A Landmark Deal

The confirmation of Sanju Samson moving to CSK and Ravindra Jadeja returning to Rajasthan Royals ends months of speculation around internal tensions and player retention strategies.

• Sanju Samson, who captained the Rajasthan Royals since 2021 and led them to the IPL 2022 final, has been traded to Chennai Super Kings at his existing league fee of ₹18 crore. This move makes CSK only the third franchise of his IPL career, after earlier stints with Delhi Capitals (2016–2017) and RR.
  
  
• Ravindra Jadeja, on the other hand, returns to his roots. The all-rounder began his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals and now reunites with the team after 12 seasons with CSK. His revised league fee stands at ₹14 crore, down from ₹18 crore. Despite the pay cut, Jadeja’s move brings a new leadership option and invaluable experience to the Royals’ middle order and spin attack.

This trade is not just a player swap — it’s a symbolic exchange of legacy and leadership, marking the end of one era and the beginning of another.

Sam Curran Joins the Royals’ Pink Brigade

Adding more depth to Rajasthan’s squad, England’s Sam Curran has also joined the Royals from CSK as part of the extended trade arrangement. The 27-year-old all-rounder will play for RR at his existing fee of ₹2.4 crore.

Curran’s versatility with both bat and ball makes him an ideal fit for the Royals’ all-rounder-heavy strategy. Having previously represented Punjab Kings and CSK, RR will be his third IPL franchise. With Curran and Jadeja in their ranks, Rajasthan now boasts one of the most balanced and dynamic all-round units in the league.

Mohammed Shami’s Surprise Move to Lucknow Super Giants

In another high-profile move, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has been traded to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) from SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). Shami, who will join LSG at his existing fee of ₹10 crore, brings a wealth of experience and new-ball brilliance to the Rishabh Pant-led side.

Shami’s IPL career, spanning 119 matches across five franchises, includes a Purple Cap win in 2023 with 28 wickets for the Gujarat Titans. His addition significantly strengthens Lucknow’s fast-bowling attack, complementing their young pace lineup.

Arjun Tendulkar Heads to Lucknow

The Lucknow Super Giants have also acquired Arjun Tendulkar, son of legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, from the Mumbai Indians. The bowling all-rounder joins LSG at his existing salary of ₹30 lakh.

This move presents a fresh start for the young left-arm seamer, who will now have the opportunity to work alongside elite pacers and further develop under a new environment. LSG’s emphasis on grooming young Indian talent aligns well with Arjun’s potential and trajectory.

Mayank Markande Returns to Mumbai Indians

Leg-spinner Mayank Markande, who started his IPL career with the Mumbai Indians, has made a return to his original franchise. Following a successful trade from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Markande re-joins MI at his existing contract value of ₹30 lakh.

Known for his sharp googlies and flighted leg-spin, Markande’s return strengthens Mumbai’s spin arsenal, offering the team a dependable option in middle overs, especially on slower pitches.

Nitish Rana Joins Delhi Capitals

Left-handed batter Nitish Rana, who has built a reputation as a consistent IPL performer, will now don the Delhi Capitals (DC) jersey after being traded from the Rajasthan Royals. Rana joins DC at his existing fee of ₹4.2 crore.

Rana’s inclusion adds depth to Delhi’s middle order. Having captained KKR in 2023 during Shreyas Iyer’s injury absence, his leadership experience and aggressive batting style could prove valuable in DC’s campaign next season.

Donovan Ferreira Rejoins Rajasthan Royals

All-rounder Donovan Ferreira is making a comeback to his first IPL home, the Rajasthan Royals, following a trade from the Delhi Capitals. Under the terms of the deal, his salary has been revised from ₹75 lakh to ₹1 crore.

Ferreira’s explosive lower-order batting and part-time off-spin make him a valuable asset for the Royals, who have been focusing on assembling a versatile squad capable of adapting to varied match conditions.

The Financial Dynamics of the Trade Window

This year’s IPL trade window has showcased how franchises are evolving beyond player acquisitions — they’re now strategically managing finances, team chemistry, and long-term sustainability.

For instance, CSK’s decision to part ways with Jadeja, despite his long-standing association with the team, is seen as a restructuring move to balance leadership roles and free up budget space for younger talents. Conversely, Rajasthan’s acquisition of Jadeja and Curran reflects their push for experience-driven stability, particularly in crunch situations.

With IPL contracts now rivaling top international cricket salaries, the 2025–26 trades mark a new phase of financially calculated, performance-oriented deals.

What the Trades Mean for IPL 2026

The player swaps have already reshaped fan expectations ahead of IPL 2026.

• CSK, with Samson’s arrival, now has a potential successor to MS Dhoni and a top-order batsman capable of anchoring innings and leading from the front.
  
  
• Rajasthan Royals, rejuvenated by Jadeja’s leadership and Curran’s all-round presence, appear set to mount a serious title challenge.

Lucknow Super Giants, with Shami and Arjun Tendulkar, have reinforced their bowling depth.

Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians have strengthened their middle order and spin options respectively.

With the IPL 2026 Mega Auction on the horizon, these trades could be crucial in shaping franchise strategies for the upcoming seasons.