Negotiations between CSK and RR are currently underway regarding the potential trade of Samson.
The IPL could witness one of the most talked about transfer deals in recent times as talks continue between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), where two of the three players involved are all but certain.
CSK and RR restarted the negotiations regarding the potential trade of Sanju Samson, and the five-time champions offered two players in exchange, with Ravindra Jadeja being one of them. The other player has been reported to be England all-rounder Sam Curran.
Amid the recent development, legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes that RR would become a force to reckon with if the Jadeja-Samson trade indeed goes through
Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat’, Ashwin suggested that the wickets in Jaipur would suit Jadeja, and he can also contribute with the bat in the lower-middle order. He also reckons CSK would benefit by acquiring Samson’s services, but they would still be required to rope in a finisher at the auction.
“In the last three years, what has Jadeja done for the CSK? Of course, he is a World Cup winner. He helped the team win the IPL through his fantastic batting in the IPL 2023 final. We need to look at stats, CSK in Chennai have always had a finger spinner operate in the middle, and that has been Jadeja. In the last three years, Jadeja has taken 38 wickets in 44 games, with an economy rate of 7.9,” Ashwin said.
“With his batting, he is still one of the best finishers going around. He is striking over 150 against fast bowlers and less against spin. He is doing a fine job as the finisher. Keeping this in mind, the trade is going to be amazing news for the Rajasthan Royals. Jadeja gives them finishing skills as a left-hander. Jaipur will suit him because there is no lateral movement there,” he added.
According to Ashwin, Jadeja will not get the leadership role at RR as the management prefers to groom youngsters and connections also play a part.
“Jadeja is no small player for CSK. This is not something CSK have done in the past. You have to speak to the player. It is a good option for Jadeja; he can get to finish his IPL career where he began,” Ashwin stated.
“It is always difficult to lead the side in your first year as you have to gel with the rest of the squad. I have played for the Rajasthan Royals, and I am familiar with their culture. It is a team built on youngsters and connections,” he remarked.
Ashwin also opined that Samson wouldn't receive CSK’s captaincy as the franchise is likely to stick with Ruturaj Gaikwad for now.
“If, along with Jadeja, Sam Curran also goes, he gives them the vital fast-bowling option, and along with this great batting form, it is going to be a phenomenal deal for Rajasthan. CSK also benefit by bringing Samson in. They will also have a lot of money going into the auction, and they get the option of buying Cameron Green,” said Ashwin.
“But where will they get the spinner from? Will Cameron Green be able to finish off games? Will CSK look after Ben Stokes too? Only time will tell. I don't think Sanju will be given the captaincy because it would be his first season there. I think Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue, but he will definitely be an option going ahead,” he concluded.