Ravindra Jadeja is set to begin a new chapter in his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals in the 2026 season. Former India batter Subramaniam Badrinath believes Jadeja will become a very important player for the team after moving from Chennai Super Kings.
The experienced all-rounder returns to the franchise where he started his IPL journey, and expectations are high for his role in the upcoming season.
Jadeja’s Move from CSK to Rajasthan Royals
During the IPL off-season, Chennai Super Kings traded Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals. In return, CSK brought Sanju Samson into their squad.
This trade brings Jadeja back to Rajasthan Royals, the team where he first played in the IPL. For the 2026 season, Jadeja has signed a contract worth ₹14 crore.
The IPL 2026 tournament is scheduled to begin on March 28.
Jadeja Trade Details
| Player | Team Moved From | Team Joined | Contract Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ravindra Jadeja | Chennai Super Kings | Rajasthan Royals | ₹14 crore |
| Sam Curran | Chennai Super Kings | Rajasthan Royals | Trade deal |
| Sanju Samson | Rajasthan Royals | Chennai Super Kings | Trade deal |
What Subramaniam Badrinath Said
Former India player Subramaniam Badrinath shared his views on Jadeja’s move and said the all-rounder could play a major role for Rajasthan Royals this season.
According to Badrinath, Jadeja’s return to RR is like coming back to where his IPL journey began. He believes Jadeja will have more responsibilities in the team.
Badrinath said Jadeja is likely to contribute in several roles. He can finish matches with the bat, bowl his full quota of four overs, and provide experience as a senior player in the squad.
Also See : How Bangladesh’s Pace Attack Became One of the Best in ODI Cricket
Jadeja’s Early IPL Days with Rajasthan Royals
Ravindra Jadeja started his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals and was part of the team that won the inaugural IPL title in 2008 under captain Shane Warne.
He played for RR in the first two seasons of the league before moving to other franchises later.
Jadeja IPL Team History
| Years | Team |
|---|---|
| 2008–2009 | Rajasthan Royals |
| 2011 | Kochi Tuskers Kerala |
| 2012–2025 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2026 | Rajasthan Royals |
His return to Rajasthan Royals after many years adds an interesting story to the upcoming season.
A Difficult 2025 Season with CSK
The 2025 IPL season was challenging for Jadeja at Chennai Super Kings.
He struggled to make a big impact with the ball and the team also had a disappointing campaign.
Jadeja IPL 2025 Bowling Performance
| Matches | Wickets | Average | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 10 | 32+ | 8.56 |
CSK finished at the bottom of the points table with only four wins from 14 matches that season.
Jadeja’s Overall IPL Career
Despite the difficult 2025 season, Ravindra Jadeja has had a long and successful IPL career.
He has been one of the most reliable all-rounders in the league for many years.
Jadeja IPL Career Stats
| Matches | Runs | Wickets |
|---|---|---|
| 254 | 3000+ | 170 |
He was also a key player in Chennai Super Kings’ title-winning campaigns in 2018, 2021, and 2023.
One of his most memorable moments came in the IPL 2023 final when he hit the winning runs against Gujarat Titans.
Rajasthan Royals’ Plans for IPL 2026
Rajasthan Royals will be hoping that Jadeja’s experience strengthens their squad in the upcoming season.
The team finished ninth in the previous season with four wins from 14 matches and will look to improve their performance this year.
RR will start their IPL 2026 campaign with a match against Chennai Super Kings.
RR Opening Match in IPL 2026
| Match | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|
| RR vs CSK | Guwahati | 30 March 2026 |
The match will also mark Jadeja’s first appearance against his former team after the trade.
