Ahead of the IPL 2026 retention deadline, Chennai Super Kings reportedly contemplate a major trade involving Ravindra Jadeja and Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson. However, CSK's former star Suresh Raina issued a stern warning for his former team as he asked them not to let Jadeja leave the franchise at any cost.

Reports suggest that Jadeja’s future with CSK has been uncertain for some time. According to sources, the franchise is exploring a player swap deal that could see Jadeja and one of Sam Curran or Matheesha Pathirana move to Rajasthan in exchange for Sanju Samson. Samson, who has captained the Royals since 2021, is being viewed as a potential long-term successor to MS Dhoni behind the stumps once the veteran retires.

The proposed trade has elicited mixed feelings amongst fans and analysts alike. Jadeja, who joined CSK in 2011, has been a very important cog in multiple title wins, thanks to his match-winning performances with bat and ball. His long-standing connection with MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina has made him one of the most loved figures in the franchise’s history.

Raina Backs Jadeja and Lists Key Players CSK Must Retain

Speaking to JioStar ahead of the retention deadline, Suresh Raina said Jadeja is irreplaceable and must remain with the team. “Noor Ahmad should be retained. He’s a mystery spinner, so he must be kept. MS Dhoni should definitely be retained; he is playing this year, so he should remain with the team. Ruturaj Gaikwad should continue as captain. Ravindra Jadeja should be retained again. He is a gun player for CSK. He has done really, really well for the team over the years, so ‘Sir Ravindra Jadeja’ has to be there,” Raina stated.

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Noor Ahmad 👀
Devon Conway 🤔
Ravindra Jadeja ❓

After a tough season last year, @ImRaina takes on the ‘Hold or Fold’ challenge featuring #CSK players! Find out who makes the cut! 🤨

WATCH TATA IPL 2026 Retention Special 👉🏻 SAT, 15th NOV, 5 PM on Star Sports Network &… pic.twitter.com/zPSdANemav

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 9, 2025

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The former vice-captain also suggested releasing a few players to refresh the squad ahead of the mini-auction. He said, “Devon Conway should be released. CSK need a local opener, which they will look for in the mini-auction. Vijay Shankar has already received plenty of chances, so I think CSK should release him as well. Deepak Hooda should be released too. There are a lot of players available in the mini-auction who can provide the same combination for the team. These players got their chances last year, and we saw how they played. So, probably CSK will have to look for someone new.”