Mumbai: The build-up to the IPL 2026 mini auction is turning into one of the most dramatic in recent years, with franchises actively exploring blockbuster trades even before stepping into the auction hall. The pre-auction trade window has already ignited major buzz, with several high-profile names in motion as teams attempt to overhaul their rosters and plug critical gaps.
Big-name trades aren’t new to the IPL — deals involving Hardik Pandya, Cameron Green, and Robin Uthappa have reshaped the league in the past. Pandya’s sensational move from Gujarat Titans back to Mumbai Indians remains one of the most iconic swaps in tournament history.
However, this year, the spotlight is firmly on a potential Sanju Samson–Ravindra Jadeja trade, which is being hailed as one of the most significant transfers the league has ever seen.
Samson to CSK Nearly Finalised; RR Expected to Receive Sam Curran
After weeks of speculation linking Sanju Samson with Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals, the latest reports confirm that the Rajasthan Royals captain is now on the verge of signing with Chennai Super Kings.
As part of the proposed blockbuster deal:
CSK will receive: Sanju Samson
RR will receive: Sam Curran, England’s star all-rounder and one of the league’s highest-paid overseas players
If completed, this will easily rank among the most influential player-for-player swaps in IPL history.
But there’s a hitch.
Rajasthan Royals have already exhausted their overseas player quota, meaning they must release at least one foreign player before formally accommodating Curran. Though all parties have reportedly agreed to terms, this technicality has temporarily stalled the trade.
Confirmed Trades Ahead of IPL 2026 Mini Auction
Shardul Thakur to Mumbai Indians
The first official trade of the season saw Shardul Thakur move from Lucknow Super Giants to Mumbai Indians for the same ₹2 crore fee LSG paid when they brought him in as an injury replacement during IPL 2025. Thakur played 10 matches last season and remains one of India’s most dependable all-rounders during crunch moments.
Sherfane Rutherford Joins MI from Gujarat Titans
Mumbai Indians continued their aggressive pre-auction build-up by securing Sherfane Rutherford from Gujarat Titans.
The explosive West Indies batter, known for his world-record 139-run sixth-wicket stand with Andre Russell, adds tremendous firepower to MI’s middle order.
Arjun Tendulkar Set for Move to Lucknow Super Giants
Reports indicate that MI and LSG have agreed on a separate deal involving Arjun Tendulkar.
Purchased by MI for ₹30 lakh in 2023, Tendulkar is expected to move to LSG in search of consistent playing time. MI management is believed to have facilitated the transfer to help the young all-rounder gain more opportunities.
Mohammed Shami Attracts Heavy Interest
Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has become one of the most sought-after names this trade window, with both Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants pushing hard for his signature.
At 34, Shami continues to deliver world-class performances across formats, boasting:
64 Tests
108 ODIs
25 T20Is
DC mentor Sourav Ganguly recently hinted at Shami’s excellent rhythm, saying:
“Selectors are watching him closely… this is the Mohammad Shami we all know — fit and full of skill.”
His move could be the next major headline before the auction.
