Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are reportedly in talks over a trade involving wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson. According to the latest reports, CSK is set to trade all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in the proposed exchange, while RR are interested in Mathisha Pathirana.
The mini auction is likely to take place between December 13 and 15. Notably, the last two editions were held in Dubai and Jeddah, while the venue for this year’s event has not been announced yet. Ahead of the auction, all ten franchises have been asked to submit the list of their retained players by November 15.
Talks between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings on Sanju Samson trade
Teams can retain any number of players without the cap. However, each team must stay within the 25-player limit. The BCCI is yet to make an official announcement regarding the event, and there has been speculation regarding player trade and retention strategies.
Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings are in talks over the possible trade of Sanju Samson. CSK have reportedly offered Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in return.
However, Rajasthan are said to be dissatisfied with the proposed deal, creating uncertainty over Samson’s future. The wicketkeeper-batsman is believed to be exploring opportunities beyond Rajasthan, making it one of the most talked-about business sagas ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.
Mathisha Pathirana to join Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026?
Rajasthan Royals are unhappy with Chennai Super Kings’ trade offer that included Sam Curran as part of the Sanju Samson deal. According to The Indian Express, Rajasthan are not interested in including Curran and have requested Mathisha Pathirana in exchange.
Pathirana has emerged as a prime target for Rajasthan due to his growing reputation as a reliable fast bowler. However, Chennai sees the young fast bowler as a long-term prospect, who is expected to play a major role in the team’s plans.
While Rajasthan is open to continued discussions regarding Samson’s move, there is no clarity on whether CSK will reconsider their stance in the coming days.
MS Dhoni is like my father because… – Mathisha Pathirana
Mathisha Pathirana’s manager’s recent Instagram story, which included the single words “Loading…” has sparked speculation among fans. This cryptic post has rekindled rumors of a big trade deal between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals for Pathirana and Sanju Samson.
Pathirana Manager Instagram Story pic.twitter.com/trDkJHLhft
– Prakash (@definitelynot05) 9 November 2025
Rajasthan is keen to acquire the services of the young Sri Lankan fast bowler. However, considering Pathirana to be an important long-term asset for the franchise, Chennai are hesitant to part ways with him. Fans are now eagerly waiting to see if this post is a sign of a blockbuster trade in the making.
In April 2025, Mathisha Pathirana expressed his deep admiration for former Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni, calling him his “cricketing father”. The 22-year-old player said that Dhoni’s advice at CSK reminded him of the support he got from his father in Sri Lanka.
“MS Dhoni is like my father because of the support and guidance he gave me at CSK and the guidance he gave me. So, it’s like what my father did in my house. That’s why I consider Dhoni as my cricketing father,” Pathirana said in CSK’s ‘The Making of Mathisha Pathirana’ documentary.
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