Big Trade Drama Before IPL 2026, Just months before the IPL 2026 mini-auction, a big trade story has shaken the cricket world. Rajasthan Royals (RR) approached Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with a surprising proposal—trade their captain Sanju Samson for one of CSK’s star players: Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Shivam Dube.
However, CSK rejected the deal immediately, making it clear they are not willing to part ways with any of their key players.
The Proposed Trade
According to multiple reports, RR wanted a straight swap:
| RR Offered | CSK Players They Wanted in Return |
|---|---|
| Sanju Samson (Captain & Wicketkeeper) | Ravindra Jadeja OR Ruturaj Gaikwad OR Shivam Dube |
This proposal was seen as a high-value exchange, as all three CSK players are match-winners in the IPL.
Like to know ? – Why CSK Banned for 2 Years
Why RR is Exploring a Samson Trade
- Sources suggest Sanju Samson has shown interest in exploring new opportunities ahead of IPL 2026.
- His close bond with Jos Buttler and RR’s decision to release Buttler may have influenced his stance.
- RR could also be looking for fresh squad combinations after inconsistent performances in recent seasons.
Sanju Samson’s IPL Career Stats (till IPL 2025)
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 165 | 4,138 | 29.62 | 137.76 | 3 | 20 |
Samson has been one of the most consistent wicketkeeper-batters in the league, known for his aggressive batting and captaincy for RR.
Why CSK Said No
- Ravindra Jadeja is not just a star all-rounder but also a crucial leader for CSK.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad is seen as a future captain of the franchise.
- Shivam Dube has been a consistent middle-order power-hitter in recent seasons.
Losing any of them would disrupt CSK’s core balance, which has been their strength over the years.
BIG IPL 2026 Update
— Cricketman2 (@Cricketman2_) August 14, 2025
CSK have REJECTED RR’s trade offer of Sanju Samson in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, or Shivam Dube.
What next for Samson? 👀#IPL2026 #CSK #RR #SanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/mNZPhh9AxQ
Next for Sanju Samson?
- RR may approach other IPL teams for a trade.
- If no suitable deal happens, Samson might still lead RR in IPL 2026.
- With the mini-auction approaching, his future will be one of the biggest talking points in Indian cricket.
Read more: – Most Successful IPL Captains
This trade story shows how high-value player swaps are becoming part of IPL’s new reality. Fans will be watching closely to see if Sanju Samson stays in pink or moves to a new franchise before IPL 2026 begins.
