Indian cricket fans are bracing for an emotional shift as Ravindra Jadeja bids farewell to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after a remarkable 12-year journey marked by iconic moments and three IPL titles. In a stunning move ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction, Jadeja has been traded to Rajasthan Royals (RR), marking his return to the franchise where his IPL career began.

Jadeja, affectionately known as “Thala” by CSK fans, played a pivotal role in the franchise’s success with his all-round brilliance. Over the years, he became synonymous with CSK’s brand of tenacity and consistency, showcasing his match-winning skills across 200+ matches. His departure is undoubtedly one of the most emotional chapters in the team’s history.

The official announcement came from RR via a heartfelt social media post: “Aaj rumour nahi, headline likhna. Ravindra Thalapathy Jadeja is coming home.”

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This message captured the sentiment of Jadeja’s homecoming to the Royals, the team with whom he lifted the very first IPL trophy back in 2008. CSK Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan opened up about the challenging decision in a candid explanation.

“Chennai Super Kings, as you know, have traded Jadeja and Sam Curran for Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals. Over the years, we have avoided the trading route except once when we brought in Robin Uthappa. But with limited Indian top-order batsmen available in the auction pool, trading became our strategical necessity,” Viswanathan stated.

Aaj rumour nahi, headline likhna. Ravindra 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒚 Jadeja is coming home ⚔️🔥 pic.twitter.com/XJT5b5plCy

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 15, 2025

He further added, “It’s been one of the toughest decisions we’ve ever made. Jaddu has been the backbone of CSK’s success, and parting ways wasn’t just a management call—it was emotional. But with the team undergoing transition and needing to secure key positions for the future, we had to think long-term.”

In the trade, Jadeja’s league fee has been reduced from ₹18 crore to ₹14 crore, while Sanju Samson will join CSK at the same ₹18 crore fee.

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Viswanathan also emphasised that the decision was mutual: “Jadeja understood the situation. He mentioned he’s nearing the twilight of his white-ball career and welcomed a fresh start. He’s earned the right to decide what’s best for his journey.”

Jadeja’s move marks the end of an era for CSK and the beginning of a nostalgic revival for RR fans, bringing the all-rounder back to where it all began.