NEW DELHI: Until the trade between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson is finalised, the buzz continues to grow around what could be the biggest swap of the season.
Royals are set to trade their captain Sanju Samson to CSK in exchange for Jadeja and one more player, but a consensus has not yet been reached on the second name. Earlier reports suggested that Sam Curran would be part of the deal, but it has now emerged that the inaugural season champions are interested in acquiring Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana.
Ravindra Jadeja open to CSK exit, but RR not keen on Sam Curran as Samson trade takes a turn: Report
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has weighed in on the much-talked-about topic, offering a fresh perspective by suggesting that MS Dhoni might be behind the move, keeping in mind the transitional shift within the team.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif hinted that Dhoni - renowned for his sharp cricketing acumen - could be willing to let go of a seasoned match-winner like Jadeja in exchange for securing a long-term leader in Samson.
Kaif also reflected on Jadeja's brief and turbulent captaincy stint in 2022, when CSK managed just one victory in their first eight matches, prompting Dhoni to reclaim the captaincy and steady the team's campaign.
"Both players started their IPL careers in 2008. Since joining CSK, Dhoni has never left the franchise. If this trade happens, it could be his last season - maybe even one he doesn't finish. If Sanju settles well with the team and management, Dhoni could hand him the reins," Kaif explained.
He further noted that CSK have long been focused on finding a suitable successor to MS Dhoni - a plan that went off track when Jadeja struggled to cope with the captaincy responsibilities.
"Jadeja tried captaincy but wasn't comfortable. Not everyone can lead in the IPL. Dhoni's long-term vision seems clear - he's ready to give up Jadeja to bring in a future captain," Kaif said.
