Dhoni’s ‘desperation’ move forces Jadeja’s CSK exit despite franchise reluctance: Report

Ravindra Jadeja’s long association with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) appears to be nearing its end, with reports claiming the India all-rounder has already signed his consent papers and handed them over to the franchise. This effectively marks the conclusion of his 13-year stint with CSK, a team with which he won three of his four IPL titles. Alongside Jadeja’s exit, CSK are also set to release Sam Curran as part of a major trade that will see Rajasthan Royals’ captain Sanju Samson move to Chennai.

According to a recent media report, however, CSK were not initially inclined to part ways with Jadeja. The deal with Rajasthan Royals reportedly emerged out of “desperation” rather than strategy. The report added that while CSK had been pursuing Samson for months, the franchise never planned to let Jadeja go.

Interest in Samson dates back to the Major League Cricket tournament in the US earlier this year, where CSK officials are believed to have met the Indian wicketkeeper-batter. Once Rajasthan Royals learned of Chennai’s interest, they approached the five-time IPL champions to discuss a potential trade. But negotiations stalled when the Royals insisted on an exchange deal instead of a straightforward cash transfer — a practice CSK typically avoids.

Rajasthan wanted Jadeja as part of the deal, while Chennai initially pushed for a cash-only offer. The 35-year-old all-rounder has been one of the cornerstones of CSK’s success, retained twice — in 2018 and 2025 — and a vital contributor to three of their championship wins, including the 2023 final against Gujarat Titans, where his late heroics sealed the title.

Also Read: CSK’s birthday post for Sanju Samson hints at imminent trade from Rajasthan Royals

Ultimately, CSK realised that resisting the trade could halt negotiations altogether. The management reportedly viewed Samson’s addition as a long-term solution to their persistent dilemma over MS Dhoni’s eventual successor. With Dhoni now 44 and battling recurring knee injuries, Samson’s arrival would allow a smoother leadership transition while strengthening the top order.

Last season, Dhoni largely played a limited role, batting down the order and avoiding wicketkeeping duties due to fitness concerns. Samson, an established top-order batter and wicketkeeper, is expected to bring balance and clarity to Chennai’s lineup.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif also weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Dhoni may have “sacrificed” Jadeja in CSK’s best interest. He pointed out that Jadeja’s underwhelming leadership in 2022 — when CSK lost seven of their first eight matches — might have influenced the franchise’s decision.

“Dhoni will do what’s necessary for CSK’s success,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel. “He might be loyal to his players, but his ultimate goal is to keep Chennai a championship team. If that means letting go of Jadeja to get someone who better fits the team’s needs, he won’t hesitate.”