CSK all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson are allegedly considering a potential trade as the IPL 2026 retention deadline draws closer. Former franchise mainstay Suresh Raina has cautioned his former squad against letting Jadeja leave.
There has been conjecture regarding the talented all-rounder’s future with the Chennai Super Kings ever since rumors surfaced of a possible player trade with the Rajasthan Royals. In exchange for Samson, CSK is reportedly considering a trade that would send Jadeja and one of Sam Curran or Matheesha Pathirana to Jaipur. As the team’s captain since 2021, the Royals captain has been viewed as MS Dhoni’s long-term replacement behind the stumps.
Opinions on the proposed transaction, however, are split. Jadeja joined CSK in 2011 and has since been one of the team’s top match-winners, helping them win numerous titles with both bat and ball. He cherishes his relationship with Dhoni and Raina, two of CSK’s most recognizable players. Raina said that Jadeja is irreplaceable in an interview with JioStar prior to the IPL 2026 retention deadline.
“It would be wise to keep Noor Ahmad. He must be kept as he spins mysteries. Since MS Dhoni is participating this season, the team should absolutely keep him on board. Ruturaj Gaikwad ought to remain captain. Retaining Ravindra Jadeja is a good idea. He plays a gun for CSK.
‘Sir Ravindra Jadeja’ must be there since he has performed incredibly well for the squad throughout the years,” he stated.
Noor Ahmad 👀
Devon Conway 🤔
Ravindra Jadeja ❓After a tough season last year, @ImRaina takes on the ‘Hold or Fold’ challenge featuring #CSK players! Find out who makes the cut! 🤨
WATCH TATA IPL 2026 Retention Special 👉🏻 SAT, 15th NOV, 5 PM on Star Sports Network &… pic.twitter.com/zPSdANemav
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 9, 2025
It’s time to free Devon Conway: Suresh Raina
MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and young spinner Noor Ahmad are among the players the former CSK vice-captain said should stay in the team. Raina’s statement is significant since it coincides with escalating media speculation and rumors regarding Jadeja’s tense relationship with the franchise’s administration in recent seasons. The former suggested a few releases to refresh the team while arguing for Jadeja’s retention. He recommended splitting from Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, and Devon Conway to make room for fresh local talent in the next mini-auction.
“Devon Conway ought to be freed. In order to find a local opener, CSK will search the mini-auction. Numerous opportunities have previously been given to Vijay Shankar. Thus, in my opinion, CSK ought to also release him. Deepak Hooda ought to be freed as well. Many players that can offer the same combination for the team are up for grabs in the mini-auction. Last year, these athletes were given their chance, and we witnessed their performance. Therefore, it’s likely that CSK will need to find a new partner,” he continued.
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