IPL 2026 Mega Trades Shake Up Team Combinations

The Indian Premier League (IPL), the world’s most celebrated T20 franchise tournament, is gearing up for a dramatic 2026 season as several major trades were finalized just before the retention deadline. With high-profile players switching camps, the upcoming edition promises a fresh narrative, renewed rivalries and bold tactical shifts from franchises.

Below is a detailed breakdown of all completed trades.

1. Ravindra Jadeja: CSK → Rajasthan Royals

After 12 seasons and a long emotional association with Chennai Super Kings, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has officially moved to Rajasthan Royals.

Previous Fee: ₹18 crore

New Fee: ₹14 crore

IPL Matches Played: 250+

Jadeja, once CSK’s captain and a franchise icon, will now return to his home state team in what is expected to be one of the biggest reshuffles of the season.

2. Sanju Samson: Rajasthan Royals → Chennai Super Kings

RR skipper and Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson joins CSK in a blockbuster swap.

Fee: Unchanged at ₹18 crore

IPL Debut: 2013

Apart from two seasons with Delhi Capitals (2016–17), Samson has spent nearly his entire career with Rajasthan, making this move particularly significant.

3. Sam Curran: CSK → Rajasthan Royals

England’s star all-rounder Sam Curran becomes another major addition for RR.

Fee: ₹2.4 crore (unchanged)

Franchises Played For: Punjab Kings, CSK, now RR

Curran brings 64 matches of IPL experience and adds depth to RR’s lower-order and pace options.

4. Mohammed Shami: Sunrisers Hyderabad → Lucknow Super Giants

Speedster Mohammed Shami joins Lucknow Super Giants, strengthening their pace attack.

Fee: ₹10 crore (unchanged)

IPL Matches: 119

Purple Cap: 2023 (28 wickets for Gujarat Titans)

Despite missing the 2024 season due to injury, Shami remains one of the most potent IPL bowlers in recent years.

5. Mayank Markande: Kolkata Knight Riders → Mumbai Indians

Leg-spinner Mayank Markande returns to his maiden franchise, Mumbai Indians.

Fee: ₹30 lakh

IPL Record: 37 wickets in 37 matches

His reunion with MI is expected to bolster their spin reserves.

6. Arjun Tendulkar: Mumbai Indians → Lucknow Super Giants

Bowling all-rounder Arjun Tendulkar moves from MI to LSG.

Fee: ₹30 lakh

IPL Debut: 2023

Arjun’s switch signals LSG’s continued investment in grooming young domestic pace-all-rounders.

7. Nitish Rana: Rajasthan Royals → Delhi Capitals

Left-handed batter Nitish Rana joins Delhi Capitals.

Fee: ₹4.2 crore

IPL Matches: 100+

Leadership Experience: Captained KKR in 2023

Rana adds stability and experience to DC’s middle order.

8. Donovan Ferreira: Delhi Capitals → Rajasthan Royals

South African all-rounder Donovan Ferreira returns to his first IPL franchise, RR.

Previous Fee: ₹75 lakh

New Fee: ₹1 crore

His increased valuation reflects Rajasthan’s renewed interest in his finishing and utility skills.

What These Trades Mean for IPL 2026

With teams reshuffling some of their biggest names, the upcoming season promises:

stronger middle-order dynamics (Samson to CSK, Rana to DC),

restructured bowling cores (Shami to LSG, Curran to RR),

surprises for long-time fans (Jadeja leaving CSK), and

renewed emphasis on domestic talent development (Markande & Arjun Tendulkar signings).

The 2026 season could see a significant shift in franchise strategies, as teams prepare for a high-stakes new cycle.