The CSK and RR trade buzz has taken the IPL world by storm, with reports suggesting Sanju Samson could move to Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2026. Following Rajasthan Royals’ disappointing 2025 campaign, finishing ninth with just four wins—speculation is rife about a leadership shake-up.

If Samson to CSK：3 Players in the CSK and RR Trade

With the IPL 2026 trade window reportedly opening on July 4, this potential blockbuster deal has sparked intense debate. If Samson does switch camps, the big question remains: who will RR seek in return? Here are three CSK players the Royals might target in one of the most talked-about IPL 2026 trade rumors.

Related Article：Leaked Move? All Signs Point to Sanju Samson in CSK

1. Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad was entrusted with the captaincy of Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2024, succeeding the legendary MS Dhoni. However, the 28-year-old hasn’t quite lived up to the leadership expectations. Under his partial stewardship, CSK failed to qualify for the playoffs in 2024, and in IPL 2025, his campaign was cut short by injury after just five matches, four of which CSK lost. While questions remain about his tactical acumen and on-field authority, Gaikwad remains a top-tier T20 batter with proven consistency.

Tap to see the beauty of a catch! 🫴🏼💯#WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/uzmTvyqAoh

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 5, 2025

Since IPL 2021, Gaikwad has amassed 2298 runs at an impressive average of 39.62—significantly better than Sanju Samson’s numbers during the same period. His calm approach, strong technique, and ability to build innings at the top make him an ideal fit for a Rajasthan Royals squad that lacked consistency in its top order. With Samson’s departure potentially creating a leadership and batting vacuum, acquiring Gaikwad could address both issues simultaneously, offering not just a stable top-order presence but also a potential long-term captaincy option.

2. Noor Ahmad

RR’s biggest weakness in IPL 2025 was their ineffective spin department. With Hasaranga and Theekshana failing to deliver, the Royals ended the season with one of the poorest spin-bowling averages (39.1) and strike rates (25.1). Enter Noor Ahmad, one of the brightest young spin prospects in T20 cricket. The Afghan left-arm wrist-spinner had a stellar 2025 season, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker with 24 scalps at an average of 17 and a respectable economy of 8.2.

5⃣4⃣% Dots
NOOR % Roar! #LSGvCSK #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/oe4fg2QQzo

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 16, 2025

Given Rajasthan’s need for an aggressive, attacking spinner, Noor could be the ideal acquisition. He offers a fresh dimension to RR’s bowling unit with his wrist spin and deceptive variations, which are especially potent in middle overs. At just 20 years of age, Noor also represents a long-term investment who could form the backbone of the Royals’ spin attack for years to come. For CSK, moving him might make sense if they are eyeing a high-profile Indian player like Samson and already have spin depth in the form of Maheesh Theekshana and other local options.

3. Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja is a name that commands immense respect across the IPL. A CSK stalwart and a key player in multiple title wins, Jadeja brings a rare combination of economical spin, hard-hitting ability, and outstanding fielding. Despite being 36, Jadeja’s fitness and form suggest he still has at least a couple of impactful seasons left. In IPL 2025, he contributed both with bat (301 runs at 33.44 strike rate 135.58) and ball (10 wickets at 8.56 economy), proving that age is just a number in his case.

Slashing through 2K in Yellove! ⚔️🦁#WhistlePodu #Yellove pic.twitter.com/4MCIoVgQJI

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 21, 2025

For Rajasthan Royals, Jadeja’s return could be both a sentimental and strategic move. Having been part of RR’s inaugural title win in 2008, his homecoming would excite fans and boost morale. More importantly, he would bring vital balance and experience to a side that looked fragile in the middle overs with both bat and ball. His presence could help mentor younger players, offer leadership support, and improve overall game awareness—qualities RR desperately lacked during their dismal 2025 campaign. For CSK, letting go of Jadeja might be a tough call, but it could be a necessary trade-off to secure a marquee Indian batter like Samson.

Cash Buyout Option：A Strategic Alternative in the CSK and RR Trade Talks

While most of the attention around the CSK and RR trade speculation has revolved around possible player swaps, another realistic scenario being discussed is a cash buyout. According to a sports news site, Chennai Super Kings may look to secure Sanju Samson through a financial transaction, offering Rajasthan Royals a substantial cash sum instead of (or along with) trading players.

This approach allows CSK to acquire a marquee Indian batter without losing key squad depth, especially if they want to retain core assets ahead of IPL 2026. CSK has a history of using this strategy effectively. One notable instance was the acquisition of Robin Uthappa from Rajasthan Royals via an all-cash trade, showcasing the franchise’s willingness to invest in experienced Indian players without complicating the deal with multi-player negotiations.

If reports are to be believed, a similar approach could be taken for Sanju Samson, potentially including someone like Shivam Dube in the mix to sweeten the offer. This financial flexibility gives CSK a strong hand in the ongoing IPL 2026 trade rumors.

Related Article：CSK Calling? RR Quietly Looking for Replacement for Sanju Samson

Final Words

From Rajasthan Royals’ perspective, a cash-heavy offer might be worth considering. With Sanju Samson and Dhruv Jurel both capable of fulfilling the wicketkeeper-batter role, RR may be inclined to offload Samson if the financial return justifies it. A lucrative cash deal would not only bolster their auction purse for future buys but also give them the flexibility to rebuild after a disappointing 2025 season. Whether through a player exchange or a CSK cash out trade, this developing storyline remains one of the most intriguing in the IPL 2026 trade rumors.