Ravindra Jadeja Returns to Rajasthan Royals After 17 Years; Sanju Samson Moves to CSK

Jaipur: In one of the biggest IPL trades in recent years, Ravindra Jadeja has returned to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) — the franchise where he made his IPL debut in 2008 under the mentorship of Shane Warne. The Saurashtra allrounder joins RR after a swap deal that sends long-time Royals captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

This marks a full-circle moment for Jadeja, who was part of RR’s title-winning inaugural season. His journey with the Royals ended in 2010 after a controversial ban for negotiating outside the IPL contract system. Now, after 17 years, he is back to where it all began.

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Why the Trade Happened

The high-profile move comes after months of negotiations and follows Samson’s desire for a fresh start despite being retained at a premium by RR. Samson ends his 11-year association with the Royals, having led them to the 2024 IPL final and the 2023 playoffs.

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What Jadeja Brings to RR

For the Royals, Jadeja fills a key all-round role:

• Stabilises the middle order

• Provides reliable left-arm spin

• Reduces dependence on overseas players

• Adds tactical flexibility

Sources close to the franchise told TOI that Jadeja is also a frontrunner for captaincy, with an official announcement expected in January. His leadership prospects place him ahead of contenders like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, and Riyan Parag.

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Other Trade Moves

• Sam Curran also joins RR from CSK as part of the trade window.

• RR and Delhi Capitals completed another swap:

  • Nitish Rana moves to Delhi Capitals

  • Donovan Ferreira returns to Rajasthan Royals