NEW DELHI: Ravindra Jadeja felt ecstatic after joining the Rajasthan Royals from Chennai Super Kings, returning to the franchise where his IPL journey began and where he won his first IPL title.

CSK have traded in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals for Jadeja and Sam Curran ahead of IPL 2026.

"Rajasthan Royals gave me my first platform and my first taste of victory. Coming back feels special - it's not just a team for me, it's home. Rajasthan Royals is where I won my first IPL, and I hope to win more with this current group of players," Jadeja said in a franchise statement.

As part of the trade agreement, Jadeja's league fee has been revised from Rs 18 crore to Rs 14 crore while Samson will play for CSK at his existing league fee of Rs 18 crore.

Jadeja has been a pillar of the CSK setup since joining the franchise in 2012. During his long and successful stint, the all-rounder played a vital role in CSK's title wins in 2018, 2021 and 2023. He leaves the team with more than 150 wickets and over 2300 runs to his name, highlighting his immense impact across seasons.

"Jadeja's return is deeply special for everyone connected to the Royals. He was part of our foundation years and to welcome him back now as one of the game's most complete players is incredibly meaningful. Alongside Sam Curran, whose competitiveness and all-round quality strengthen our group, this marks a new and exciting chapter for the franchise," said Manoj Badale, RR's lead owner.

Kumar Sangakkara, RR's Director of Cricket, expressed his thoughts on the new signings: "Jadeja coming back to the Royals is incredibly special for all of us. He understands the franchise and the fans, having been part of RR's IPL-winning campaign. Over the years, he has grown into a player who can influence the game in every department. His experience, composure, and competitive edge will add immense value to our group. Sam brings a different but equally important dimension. He's fearless, adaptable, and thrives in pressure situations with both bat and ball. Together, Jadeja and Sam give us balance, leadership, and the kind of match-winning depth we want as we build for the future."

"Sanju's journey with the Royals has been remarkable. I've seen him grow not just as a player, but as a leader who always put the team first and carried himself with calmness and integrity. He has given everything to this franchise, and we are deeply grateful for the role he has played in shaping our culture and standards. We respect his decision and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career," Sangakkara stated.

"Sanju was with us at trials when he was just 17 years old, went on to become one of our youngest captains of RR and since then, he has been an integral part of the Royals family for more than a decade, continuing to inspire everyone around him. 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," Badale added.