The talks regarding a trade of Sanju Samson to CSK and the switch of Ravindra Jadeja to RR have become even more fascinating: the latest information indicates that the latter has asked for something special from the Rajasthan Royals management in case the transaction goes ahead. One of his main demands is that he wants to be the captain of RR along with the deal.
Jadeja is not merely swapping teams. He is also, according to reports, driven by a need to demonstrate his worth and to get back at CSK if they release him. It is whispered that the all-rounder considers the trade as an opportunity for a new beginning and a chance to clear the slate of an uneven captaincy period at CSK (he quit halfway in 2022) by accepting a leadership role at RR.
From the side of the franchise, RR regards the purchase of Jadeja (and probably another player) as crucial in laying down their foundation for IPL 2026. If Jadeja becomes the captain, his knowledge with CSK and his match-winning skills could form a new backbone for the Royals. The trading rumors indicate that the exchange would mean Samson on his way to CSK, while RR would get Jadeja (and possibly another player like Sam Curran) in return.
Who do you think will be RR’s next captain? pic.twitter.com/9l4ijUZ5Xq
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) November 12, 2025
Nonetheless, despite the requests being put forth and discussions taking place, the agreement is still not finalized. The Rajasthan Royals need to solve the issues regarding the overseas player limits and the salary cap before the exchange can be confirmed. Until that time, there is no such thing as confirmation.
Jadeja’s terms are met and the trade goes through, that means the one shift in IPL leadership that could be the most exciting has taken place: a former CSK’s trusted player turning out to be the face and captain of a new team. Just changing his franchise is not the situation for Jadeja – it is the opportunity of proving himself, getting more responsibility, and altering his IPL story.
Also read: IPL 2026 Trade Buzz: Has Shardul Thakur Been Traded to Mumbai Indians?
What Happens Next
The IPL 2026 retention date is nearly upon us and both franchises only have a few days left to conclude their trade and retention plans. The transaction involving CSK and RR which includes Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, and maybe even Sam Curran, is now almost finished with the negotiations. If, however, Jadeja’s leadership demand becomes a pivotal issue, it could either accelerate the trade or prolong it even more.
For CSK, giving up Jadeja would mean the end of their long and fruitful partnership with one of their star players. The team would most probably start to build around Rahane, the new captain, and take in Sanju Samson as well.
For the Rajasthan side, getting Jadeja as an all-rounder and possibly a vice-captain would definitely change the face of the team, particularly through his match-winning capability and aggressive approach. Besides, his longing to lead and score against CSK might put some fire into the rivalry between them.
These next two days will be very important, if the technical issues are all sorted out and the two teams come to a consensus, then this mammoth trade could be made public before the retention deadline.
Written By:- Manjunath S