The IPL 2026 player trade updates are finally out, and the moves are bigger than expected. The window before the retention deadline always creates excitement, and this year, teams made bold calls. The league saw star players switch sides, fee changes, and some emotional returns.
This guide covers every confirmed trade, player fees, career highlights, and what each move means for the 2026 season.
What is the IPL 2026 trade window?
The trade window is a period where franchises can exchange players before the retention deadline. The aim is to balance squads and fix gaps before the big auction.
Teams usually trade to improve leadership, strengthen weak departments, or adjust salary caps. This year, several experienced players found new homes.
Top IPL 2026 trades you should know
Below are all the trades confirmed by the league on 15 November 2025.
Ravindra Jadeja moves to Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Ravindra Jadeja, one of the league’s most seasoned all-rounders, has joined Rajasthan Royals. He played 12 seasons for Chennai Super Kings, and this move marks a fresh chapter for him.
Score all your matches for FREE!
Key details
- New team: Rajasthan Royals
- Previous team: CSK
- League fee adjusted: 18 crore → 14 crore
- IPL matches played: 250+
Why this trade matters
RR needed an experienced finisher who can guide the lower order and bowl in pressure moments. Jadeja fits this role easily. His experience will make a strong impact in tight games.
Cricket Q&A
Five quick questions. Get a personal tip.
Sanju Samson moves to Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Sanju Samson, the long-time Rajasthan Royals captain, will now play for CSK. He joins at his existing fee of 18 crore.
Key details
- New team: CSK
- Previous team: RR
- IPL matches: 177
- Third franchise of his career
Why this trade matters
CSK needed a stable top-order batter and a leader figure after the Jadeja exit. Samson provides both. His calm style matches CSK’s culture perfectly.
Sam Curran shifts to Rajasthan Royals (RR)
England all-rounder Sam Curran will play for RR at his existing fee of 2.4 crore.
Key details
- New team: RR
- Previous team: CSK
- IPL matches: 64
- Former teams: Punjab Kings, CSK
Why this trade matters
RR gets two all-rounders this season. Curran brings left-arm swing and lower-order runs. This strengthens RR’s balance.
Mohd Shami joins Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Veteran pacer Mohd Shami has moved from Sunrisers Hyderabad to LSG.
Key details
- New team: LSG
- Previous team: SRH
- Existing fee: 10 crore
- IPL matches: 119
- Purple Cap winner: 2023 (28 wickets)
Why this trade matters
LSG lacked an experienced powerplay bowler. Shami gives them that edge. His ability to take early wickets will help LSG control games early.
Mayank Markande returns to Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mayank Markande is back with the Mumbai Indians, the team where he began his IPL journey.
Key details
- New team: MI
- Previous team: KKR
- Fee: 30 lakh
- IPL matches: 37
- IPL wickets: 37
Why this trade matters
MI needed a reliable leg-spinner. Markande already understands their system, which should help him settle quickly.
Also read: Biggest Cricket Franchise in the World
Arjun Tendulkar moves to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Arjun Tendulkar has joined LSG at his existing fee of 30 lakh.
Key details
- New team: LSG
- Previous team: MI
- IPL debut: 2023
Why this trade matters
LSG has been searching for bowling options that can develop over time. Arjun gives them a left-arm pace option and long-term potential.
Nitish Rana joins Delhi Capitals (DC)
Left-hand batter Nitish Rana will represent Delhi Capitals after a trade from Rajasthan Royals.
Key details
- New team: DC
- Previous team: RR
- Fee: 4.2 crore
- IPL matches: 100+
- Former captain: KKR (2023)
Why this trade matters
DC gets a flexible top-order batter who can anchor or attack. Rana adds stability to a young middle order.
Donovan Ferreira returns to Rajasthan Royals (RR)
All-rounder Donovan Ferreira is back with RR after moving from Delhi Capitals.
Key details
- New team: RR
- Previous team: DC
- Revised fee: 75 lakh → 1 crore
Why this trade matters
RR strengthens its overseas bench. Ferreira is a power-hitter and can be a strong option for middle-overs acceleration.
IPL 2026 trades summary table
| Player | From | To | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ravindra Jadeja | CSK | RR | 14 crore |
| Sanju Samson | RR | CSK | 18 crore |
| Sam Curran | CSK | RR | 2.4 crore |
| Mohd Shami | SRH | LSG | 10 crore |
| Mayank Markande | KKR | MI | 30 lakh |
| Arjun Tendulkar | MI | LSG | 30 lakh |
| Nitish Rana | RR | DC | 4.2 crore |
| Donovan Ferreira | DC | RR | 1 crore |
What these trades mean for IPL 2026
These movements show teams are building for balance. The 2026 season could be one of the most competitive editions yet. Teams have focused on mixes of youth, power hitters, and experienced bowlers. Fans can expect fresh combinations and new rivalries.
Conclusion
The IPL 2026 player trade updates have reshaped almost every team. Some trades were emotional, while others were tactical. As we move towards the auction and season kickoff, teams look sharper, smarter, and ready to compete.
FAQs
1. When is the IPL 2026 auction?
The auction will be held after the retention window closes. The official date will be announced soon.
2. Why did CSK trade Jadeja?
The franchise is moving into a new phase of squad building. CSK also wanted to refresh leadership options.
3. Which team benefited the most?
On paper, RR made multiple strong signings, gaining Jadeja, Curran, and Ferreira.
4. Will Shami start for LSG?
If it fits, yes. His power play skill is unmatched.
5. How many total trades happened?
Eight trades were completed in this window.
Source
Official IPL, 15 November 2025.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Player information, transfers, and fees are based on publicly available announcements from the IPL. No part of this content aims to misrepresent data or predict contract changes.
I am Manan Joshi , SEO All-Rounder at CricHeroes.
CricHeroes is the ultimate Cricket Scoring App and the world’s only true Cricket Network. With more than 4 crore+ registered cricketers using CricHeroes to Live Cricket Scores for their local cricket matches and tournaments, CricHeroes is already the #1 Cricket Scoring App Globally!
We also proudly present “CricHeroes Store” by CricHeroes, a dedicated shop for cricket apparel and accessories, helping players gear up for their game.
