CSK CEO explains 'toughest call' after trading Jadeja, Curran for Samson

Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan has called the decision to trade Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Sanju Samson "one of the toughest" the franchise has ever taken, stressing that the move was driven by transition planning and the scarcity of Indian top-order options in the upcoming mini-auction.

"As a franchise, you might know that over the years we have not used the path of trading except for one year when we got Robin Uthappa," Viswanathan told the CSK website. "The team management felt the need of a top-order Indian batsman and since not many Indian batsmen are going to be available at the auction, we thought that the best way is to get an Indian top-order batsman will be to go through the trade window and hence we had to take this call and this decision has been taken by the team management and it is a very tough decision leaving out Jaddu who has been responsible for the success of CSK over the years."

Jadeja, who has been central to CSK's success for over a decade, was consulted before the call was finalised. Viswanathan revealed the all-rounder understood the situation. "When I spoke to Jadeja, he was also very clear that if there is an opportunity for him... because he felt he is at the fag end of his white-ball career, he can have a break.

Curran, who enjoyed productive stints with CSK in 2020, 2021 and 2025, was also part of the trade to bring in Samson. With several senior players including MS Dhoni nearing the end of their careers, CSK see the trade as a strategic step towards the next cycle. "It is very important for CSK to build a team in the next few years," Viswanathan said.

Sanju Samson, who arrives as an experienced IPL batter is currenly part of the national T20 setup and brings with him leadership pedigree. He fits what CSK want for the future. "Sanju has been one of the most experienced IPL batsmen having scored more than 4,500 runs and he has also been leading Rajasthan Royals. He has the experience and he is only around 30 years. So we thought that he will be a good addition for CSK to take care of the future.

Viswnathan acknowledged the emotional backlash already visible among CSK supporters but insisted the decision was made in the franchise's long-term interest. "Emotionally the fans will be very upset... but taking into account the current status of the team composition, the think tank felt the need for change. I'm sure that in the years to come, CSK will maintain the same kind of consistency and perform well."

'RR not just a team, it's home' - Jadeja

Meanwhile, Jadeja spoke of the move as a return to where his IPL journey began in 2008 with a title-winning campaign. "Rajasthan Royals gave me my first platform and my first taste of victory," he said. "Coming back feels special it's not just a team for me, it's home. It's where I won my first IPL, and I hope to win more with this current group."

RR's Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara echoed the sentiment, calling Jadeja's comeback "incredibly special" and highlighting how far the all-rounder had evolved since his first stint. "His experience, composure, and competitive edge will add immense value to our group," Sangakkara said, adding that Curran also strengthens their core. "Sam brings a different but equally important dimension. He's fearless, adaptable, and thrives in pressure situations. Together, Jadeja and Sam give us balance, leadership, and the kind of match-winning depth we want as we build for the future."

The Royals lead owner Manoj Badale, while welcoming Jadeja and Curran, also acknowledged the emotional weight of parting with Samson. "Sanju was with us at trials when he was just 17, went on to become one of our youngest captains, and has been an integral part of the Royals family," Badale said. "His chapter with us has been one of belief, brilliance, and heart. Sanju has been an exceptional ambassador of our values, and we thank him for everything he has done for the Royals family."