3 reasons why RR trading in Sam Curran from CSK ahead of IPL 2026 Auction would be the right move

The Rajasthan Royals (RR) are likely to trade in Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran from Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in exchange for Sanju Samson, ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. As per a report by ESPN Cricinfo, both franchises have been in talks for a trade deal involving the three players.

CSK acquired Sam Curran for ₹2.40 crore for the 2025 season. The fast bowling all-rounder played for them in 2020 and 2021 before returning in 2025. He played five matches last season and scored 114 runs at a strike-rate of 135.71.

Overall, Curran has played 64 IPL matches so far. He has scored 997 runs at a strike-rate of 136.38 and has bagged 59 wickets at an economy of 9.73. Should the trade go through, the Rajasthan Royals could benefit from the all-rounder's inclusion.

That said, here are three reasons why Rajasthan trading in Sam Curran ahead of IPL 2026 would be the right move.

#3 Sam Curran adds strength to their batting

Rajasthan Royals relied a lot on their top-order batters to win matches last season. The likes of Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and Shimron Hetmyer failed to finish several games.

Sam Curran can add strength to their batting in the middle order. He has shown the ability to score quick runs at the backend of the innings. Moreover, he can also be used as a floater in the batting order, which gives them more flexibility.

With Ravindra Jadeja also a part of the deal, Jadeja can play the role of a finisher, with Curran adding batting depth. Therefore, the likes of Riyan, Jurel, and others would be able to express themselves more freely with reduced pressure.

#2 Quality bowling option

The Rajasthan Royals also struggled a bit with their fast bowling the previous season. Tushar Deshpande bagged nine wickets from ten matches but was not as effective with an average of 37.77 and an economy of 10.62.

Jofra Archer bagged 11 wickets from 12 matches, but had an average of 39.18 and an economy of 9.47. Sandeep Sharma also picked nine wickets, but averaged 40.11 with an economy of 9.89.

Therefore, Sam Curran could come in as a proven and quality bowling option. He would also bring variety to their attack as a left-arm pacer. With Archer being prone to injury, Curran could be a backup and share the load as well.

#1 Fills multiple gaps in the team

Being an all-rounder, Sam Curran could fill multiple gaps in the team for the Royals. With Sanju Samson gone (if the deal goes through), Curran could even bat at number three. They could also use him as a pinch-hitter wherever needed in the batting order.

Further, Curran can bowl in all phases of the game. He could share the new ball alongside Archer and even bowl in the middle and at the death. In addition, he is also a good fielder. Therefore, Curran would bring in a lot of utility and flexibility into the RR set-up. He could prove to be a value addition to the team.

Sam Curran brings in previous IPL experience and also the experience of having played international cricket in all three formats for England.

Edited by Rishab Vm