As the IPL 2026 retention deadline approaches, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are reportedly considering a swap involving CSK all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson. Suresh Raina, a former franchise star, has cautioned his old squad not to allow Jadeja leave.
The great all-rounder’s future with the Chennai Super Kings has been a topic of debate since news of a possible player trade with the Rajasthan Royals surfaced. According to insiders, CSK is looking at a deal in which Jadeja and either Sam Curran or Matheesha Pathirana will travel to Jaipur in return for Samson. The Royals skipper, who has captained the side since 2021, is widely seen as a long-term substitute for MS Dhoni behind the stumps.
However, the proposed agreement has divided views. Jadeja, who joined CSK in 2011.
Has been one of the franchise’s most prolific match-winners, contributing heavily to multiple title victories with bat and ball. His relationship with Dhoni and Raina, two of CSK’s most renowned figures, is treasured. Speaking with JioStar ahead of the IPL 2026 retention deadline, Raina indicated that Jadeja is irreplaceable.
“Noor Ahmad should be retained. He’s a mystery spinner, so he must be kept. MS Dhoni should definitely be retained; he is playing this year, so he should remain with the team. Ruturaj Gaikwad should continue as captain. Ravindra Jadeja should be retained again. He is a gun player for CSK. He has done really, really well for the team over the years, so ‘Sir Ravindra Jadeja’ has to be there,” he said.
Noor Ahmad 👀
Devon Conway 🤔
Ravindra Jadeja ❓After a tough season last year, @ImRaina takes on the ‘Hold or Fold’ challenge featuring #CSK players! Find out who makes the cut! 🤨
WATCH TATA IPL 2026 Retention Special 👉🏻 SAT, 15th NOV, 5 PM on Star Sports Network &… pic.twitter.com/zPSdANemav
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 9, 2025
Devon Conway should be released: Suresh Raina
The former CSK vice-captain also listed other players he believes should remain part of the squad, including MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and young spinner Noor Ahmad. Raina’s comment holds significance as they comes amidst growing rumours and media chatter around Jadeja’s strained relationship with the franchise’s management in recent seasons. While advocating Jadeja’s retention, the former also recommended a few releases to renew the squad. He suggested parting ways with Devon Conway, Vijay Shankar, and Deepak Hooda to create room for new local talent in the upcoming mini-auction.
“Devon Conway should be released. CSK need a local opener, which they will look for in the mini-auction. Vijay Shankar has already received plenty of chances. So I think CSK should release him as well. Deepak Hooda should be released too. There are a lot of players available in the mini-auction who can provide the same combination for the team. These players got their chances last year, and we saw how they played. So, probably CSK will have to look for someone new,” he added.
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