The Indian Premier League (IPL) trade window for the 2026 season could reportedly witness the biggest potential player swap in recent history. Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and maiden IPL winners Rajasthan Royals (RR) are in serious talks over the possible trade of India wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson and CSK's star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
Samson, who has been a key part of the Royals since the 2018 mega-auction and is their captain from 2021, has reportedly asked for his release from the franchise ahead of the upcoming IPL 2026 auction. This comes after reports of tension between Samson and the RR management, especially after the team decided to release Jos Buttler ahead of the 2024 auction, a choice that did not suit the Kerala-born cricketer.
According to Cricbuzz, RR principal owner Manoj Badale has personally reached out to several franchises including CSK, Delhi Capitals (DC), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The Royals have reportedly sent formal communications to these teams to show interest in buying Samson, who is one of India's most consistent white-ball batsmen.
Royals owner Manoj Badale is in discussions with other franchises
However, ongoing talks are for a possible Sanju Samson-Ravindra Jadeja. Reports suggest that RR have demanded either Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad in exchange for Samson. However, CSK's management, led by CEO Kasi Viswanathan and head coach Stephen Fleming, has shown reluctance to release any of its key players.
Nevertheless, sources confirm that CSK have again worked with RR to explore the possibility of bringing Samson to Chennai. The franchise is reportedly considering multiple options in preparation for its retention meeting on November 10 and 11, which will include inputs from MS Dhoni, Gaikwad and Fleming. It is believed that Samson's possible arrival could be discussed during this meeting before CSK finalize their retention list by November 15 ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction in December.
While Jadeja's name remains a hot topic in these discussions, Shivam Dubey has also been mentioned in the initial discussions. However, Chennai is ready to reject the idea of releasing Dubey, as they consider him a vital part of their long-term T20 setup.
Meanwhile, Royals owner Manoj Badale, who is currently in Mumbai, continues to hold meetings with other franchises. Delhi Capitals have also shown interest, although Tristan Stubbs and RR's reported demand for an uncapped Indian player have complicated talks.
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