The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 pre-auction buzz has reached fever pitch with reports suggesting a potential blockbuster trade involving Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, and Sam Curran. According to multiple sources, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson could be on his way to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), while veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja may return to his first IPL team, Rajasthan Royals. Additionally, England’s Sam Curran is rumored to be part of the three-way exchange, possibly joining RR as part of the mega deal.
However, the reported trade has divided opinion among fans and experts alike — with CSK legend Suresh Raina emerging as one of the strongest voices against it.
Raina Backs Jadeja to Stay with CSK
Speaking to JioStar (as reported by The Times of India), Suresh Raina emphasized that Ravindra Jadeja’s presence remains invaluable for Chennai Super Kings. Raina insisted the franchise must retain the star all-rounder, who has been an integral part of CSK’s success for over a decade.
“Ravindra Jadeja should be retained again. He is a gun player for CSK. He has done really, really well for the team over the years, so ‘Sir Ravindra Jadeja’ has to be there,” Raina stated.
Jadeja, 36, has represented CSK in 12 seasons, playing a key role in multiple title triumphs. Since making his IPL debut with Rajasthan Royals in 2008, Jadeja has featured in 254 matches, scoring 3,260 runs at an average of 27.86 and a strike rate of 130.29, while also taking 170 wickets at an economy rate of 7.67.
Raina further highlighted the players he believes CSK should retain ahead of the next season — including MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Noor Ahmad, whom he described as a “mystery spinner” worth keeping.
Players CSK Could Release Before IPL 2026
While Raina backed Jadeja’s retention, he also pointed out a few players who, in his opinion, could be released to make way for new signings.
“Devon Conway should be released. CSK need a local opener, which they will look for in the mini-auction. Vijay Shankar has already received plenty of chances, so I think CSK should release him as well. Deepak Hooda should be released too,” he said.
After a disappointing campaign earlier this year, where CSK finished at the bottom of the IPL table for the first time in their history, the five-time champions are expected to make bold decisions ahead of IPL 2026.
Whether Jadeja remains a “Yellove” icon or returns to where it all began — Rajasthan Royals — remains one of the most talked-about storylines leading into the next IPL season.
