Blockbuster Trades Dominate IPL 2026 Retention Window

New Delhi, November 15, 2025: The landscape of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was dramatically reshaped today as the retention deadline was met with a flurry of high-profile trades. Massive roster changes were formally announced, demonstrating that an aggressive strategy has been adopted by franchises ahead of the December mini-auction.

Landmark Double-Swap Executed

A significant player swap, described by many as a blockbuster double-deal, was finalized between the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

• Sanju Samson has been traded to the Chennai Super Kings. The wicketkeeper-batter is expected to be given a pivotal role in his new franchise, where he will be used as a key figure in the batting order.
• In return, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been acquired by the Rajasthan Royals. Jadeja, a veteran of CSK’s successful campaigns, is rejoined by his former franchise teammate, Sam Curran, who was also moved to RR as part of the deal. The acquisitions are expected to provide the Royals with significant depth in both spin and pace-bowling all-round options.

Major Player Movements Confirmed

Beyond the headline-making swap, several other significant trades were officially sanctioned, further re-aligning the balance of squads across the league.

• Pacer Mohammed Shami, previously of Sunrisers Hyderabad, has been traded to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). A substantial investment is believed to have been made in the fast-bowler, with his experience being valued highly by the franchise.
• Young fast-bowler Arjun Tendulkar has also been moved from Mumbai Indians (MI) and will now be seen in the colours of the Lucknow Super Giants.
• Furthermore, Shardul Thakur was successfully traded to Mumbai Indians from LSG, while all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford was acquired by MI from Gujarat Titans.

Looking Ahead

The retention lists were officially submitted today, with the trading window remaining active until one week before the mini-auction in December. Player values, now cleared from the respective team purses, are expected to be vigorously pursued when the auction is held in Abu Dhabi on December 16th. Strategic releases have also been made by all teams, with more detailed analysis of the retained and released players to be published shortly.