Ravindra Jadeja’s IPL journey started with Rajasthan Royals and he was nicknamed ‘Rockstar’ by legendary Shane Warne. In the last 17 years, Jadeja’s journey has been on an upward swing. After playing for Chennai Super Kings, Jadeja’s IPL journey has come full circle.
The all-rounder, 37, is excited to re-join the inaugural champions and deliver the goods for the franchise. Jadeja and Sam Curran have moved to Rajasthan Royals in exchange of Sanju Samson, both franchises confirmed on Saturday.
“Rajasthan Royals gave me my first platform and my first taste of victory,” Jadeja said. “Coming back feels special it’s not just a team for me, it’s home. It’s where I won my first IPL, and I hope to win more with this current group.”
RR’s Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara called Jadeja’s comeback “incredibly special” and highlighted how far the all-rounder had evolved since his first stint.
“His experience, composure, and competitive edge will add immense value to our group,” Sangakkara said, adding that Curran also strengthens their core. “Sam brings a different but equally important dimension. He’s fearless, adaptable, and thrives in pressure situations. Together, Jadeja and Sam give us balance, leadership, and the kind of match-winning depth we want as we build for the future.”
The Royals lead owner Manoj Badale praised former RR captain Sanju Samson after the wicket-keeper parted ways with the franchise.
“Sanju was with us at trials when he was just 17, went on to become one of our youngest captains, and has been an integral part of the Royals family,” Badale said. “His chapter with us has been one of belief, brilliance, and heart. Sanju has been an exceptional ambassador of our values, and we thank him for everything he has done for the Royals family.”
Rajasthan Royals squad before auction: Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Kunal Rathore, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Jofra Archer, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya Singh, Tushar Deshpande, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kwena Maphaka, Ashok Sharma, Nandre Burger. Traded in: Ravindra Jadeja (from CSK), Sam Curran (from CSK).
