KOCHI : Chennai Super Kings have made one of the biggest moves of the IPL off-season, securing India’s wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson in a high-profile trade confirmed by the league on Saturday.

The landmark deal sees Samson move to CSK ahead of IPL 2026, bringing a fresh batting core and leadership depth to the five-time champions. The trade was finalised in a blockbuster swap that sent veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja back to Rajasthan Royals, ending his 13-year stint with Chennai.

Samson’s arrival is expected to bolster CSK’s top order and add strategic flexibility, with the franchise viewing him as a long-term pillar as they transition into a new era. The move comes just hours before the IPL’s retention deadline, signalling a significant reshaping of squads ahead of the next mega season.