Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on the potential high-profile trade between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). According to the latest ESPNcricinfo report, RR are close to finalizing a deal that would see their skipper Sanju Samson move to CSK in exchange for seasoned all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
Ashwin noted that the trade would be highly beneficial for both franchises but described it as a particularly valuable move for RR. Both teams had a disappointing IPL 2025 season, finishing at the bottom of the points table. Speaking about the CSK-RR trade and the impact Jadeja could have on the Royals’ setup, Ashwin mentioned on his YouTube channel:
“It’s been spoken about that his strike rate is poor against spin. But he doesn’t play against spin mostly because he has been designated as the finisher. He has batted only down the order. And down the order, he is averaging 50 against the pacers with a strike rate in excess of 150. So when this goes to RR, it feels like a prasadh for them.”
He further continued:
“RR have four attacking batters in Jaiswal, Vaibhav, Parag and Jurel. But all four are players who haven’t experienced handling pressure to give the finishing touches. It’s like they can cook a brilliant meal but cannot complete the dessert. So an experienced Jadeja and Sam Curran, with his recent prowess with the bat, while adding extra overs, really adds teeth to RR.”
“Didn’t Expect This Trade from CSK, But It’s a Futuristic Move for Them”- R Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin admitted that the proposed trade came as a surprise from Chennai Super Kings’ point of view but felt that it could prove to be a highly rewarding move for the franchise in the long run.
“I didn’t expect this trade at all from CSK. Nevertheless, it’s a futuristic move getting Sanju as a seven-eight year bulletproof plan. A wicketkeeper batter and maybe a captaincy option. Both teams have gained from the trade but for RR, it’s like a prasadh,” he said.
Jadeja and Samson have been key pillars for their respective franchises, Jadeja playing a crucial role in three of CSK’s five title triumphs, while Samson has captained Rajasthan Royals since 2021.
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