For over a decade, Ravindra Jadeja and the iconic yellow of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) seemed inseparable. Since joining the franchise in 2012, the star all-rounder became a cornerstone of the team, producing countless match-winning performances and etching his name into the annals of IPL history. Yet, in a move that left fans and pundits alike stunned, Jadeja has chosen to part ways with CSK—despite taking a substantial pay cut of four crore rupees at his new team, the Rajasthan Royals.
A Big Pay Cut – But Why?
Before the last mega auction, CSK retained Jadeja for a staggering 18 crore rupees. Rajasthan Royals, however, signed him for 14 crore rupees—a notable reduction. Naturally, this raised the question: what prompted Jadeja to leave the team where he had achieved superstar status, seemingly at the peak of his influence?
Form Is Not the Issue
Despite nearing 37, Jadeja remains in excellent physical condition and continues to perform at the highest level. In the 2025 IPL season, he scored 301 runs and claimed 10 wickets, while the previous season saw him accumulate 267 runs and eight wickets. His remarkable last-ball heroics in the 2023 IPL final, scoring ten runs off two deliveries to clinch the title for CSK, remains one of the tournament’s most iconic moments. Clearly, neither form nor age explains his departure.
Jadeja Wanted to Leave
Sources within CSK, cited by The Indian Express, confirm that Jadeja himself requested a release. He reportedly held discussions with the management around a month ago, expressing his desire to move on. Interestingly, Jadeja began his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals, playing the first two seasons of his professional journey. A return to his original franchise also opens up the possibility of leadership—a path blocked at CSK, where Ruturaj Gaikwad currently holds the captaincy. Jadeja had a brief stint as captain in 2022, only to be removed mid-season.
Owner Manoj Badale Speaks
In a video released by Rajasthan Royals, team owner Manoj Badale revealed that Jadeja contacted him around four weeks ago. Badale said: “Jaddu reached out around mid-October expressing his desire to ‘come home’. He told us Rajasthan is where his IPL career began, where he first made his mark across India.” Badale described getting to know the mature, experienced Jadeja—whom he had last met as a 21-year-old— as “a remarkable experience”.
The Emotional Factor
Though Jadeja has not publicly explained his decision, many believe the move is driven by sentiment rather than finances. With his IPL career entering its twilight years, Jadeja may wish to return to the team where it all began, embracing a senior role and a chance to guide the next generation.
CSK’s Perspective
Despite losing a legend, Chennai may not be at a disadvantage. The signing of Sanju Samson strengthens the top order and potentially secures a long-term successor to MS Dhoni—a leadership gap CSK has been seeking to fill for years. For Jadeja, it seems, the heart has won over the wallet.