Rajasthan Royals, on Saturday, announced a significant trade ahead of the upcoming IPL 2026 season, confirming that Sanju Samson will move to Chennai Super Kings in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
For Ravindra Jadeja, this move represents a heartfelt homecoming. One of the brightest young stars unearthed by Rajasthan Royals during their title-winning 2008 campaign, Jadeja played a pivotal role in the team’s historic triumph under Shane Warne’s leadership.
Seventeen years later, he returns as one of world cricket’s most complete all-rounders - a symbol of excellence, consistency and leadership.
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“Rajasthan Royals gave me my first platform and my first taste of victory,” said Ravindra Jadeja “Coming back feels special - it’s not just a team for me, it’s home. Rajasthan Royals is where I won my first IPL, and I hope to win more with this current group of players.”
Joining him is Sam Curran, the dynamic English all-rounder renowned for his versatility and fearless approach. Curran’s ability to make an impact with both bat and ball, across formats and conditions, makes him a vital addition to the Royals’ evolving, well-balanced setup.
“Jadeja’s return is deeply special for everyone connected to the Royals,” said Manoj Badale, Lead Owner of Rajasthan Royals. “He was part of our foundation years and to welcome him back now as one of the game’s most complete players is incredibly meaningful. Alongside Sam Curran, whose competitiveness and all-round quality strengthen our group, this marks a new and exciting chapter for the franchise.”
“Jadeja coming back to the Royals is incredibly special for all of us. He understands the franchise and the fans, having been part of RR’s IPL-winning campaign”, said Kumar Sangakkara, Director of Cricket, Rajasthan Royals. “Over the years, he has grown into a player who can influence the game in every department. His experience, composure, and competitive edge will add immense value to our group. Sam brings a different but equally important dimension.”
“He’s fearless, adaptable, and thrives in pressure situations with both bat and ball. Together, Jadeja and Sam give us balance, leadership and the kind of match-winning depth we want as we build for the future.”
Now reporting for duty: 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒘𝒂𝒅𝒊 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒏 ⚔️💗 pic.twitter.com/jVf0AbJqwG
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 15, 2025
As the franchise welcomes new faces, it also bids an emotional farewell to Sanju Samson, a player who has been at the heart of the Royals’ story for more than a decade - leading with grace, belief and quiet determination.
Rajasthan Royals thanks Sanju Samson for his outstanding contributions across 11 years with the franchise. Joining as a promising youngster, Sanju grew into one of Indian cricket’s most admired players and leaders, representing the Royals with passion, humility and consistency while inspiring a generation of young cricketers.
“Sanju was with us at trials when he was just 17 years old, went on to become one of our youngest captains of RR and since then, he has been an integral part of the Royals family for more than a decade, continuing to inspire everyone around him,” said Manoj Badale. “His chapter with us has been one of belief, brilliance, and heart. Sanju has been an exceptional ambassador of our values, and we thank him for everything he has done for the Royals family.”
“Sanju’s journey with the Royals has been remarkable. I’ve seen him grow not just as a player but as a leader who always put the team first and carried himself with calmness and integrity. He has given everything to this franchise and we are deeply grateful for the role he has played in shaping our culture and standards.”
“We respect his decision and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career,” said Kumar Sangakkara.
