As the IPL 2025 season approaches, teams have wasted no time in reshaping their squads, and the Retention Deadline Day witnessed some of the most dramatic moves in recent years. The headline-grabbing transfer came in the form of India’s premier pacer, Mohammed Shami. Originally bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 10 crore, making him their second-costliest acquisition, Shami has now officially joined the Lucknow Super Giants. Confirmed on 15 November, this move is widely viewed as a major boost for LSG’s pace arsenal, particularly as the team aims to challenge for the title this season.
Shami is not the only high-profile acquisition for LSG. The franchise also secured Mumbai Indians’ left-arm seamer, Arjun Tendulkar, signalling that Lucknow were among the most aggressive teams during this trading window. With Shami and Tendulkar bolstering their bowling attack, LSG now possesses one of the strongest pace units in the competition.
Another blockbuster deal involved the much-anticipated mega swap between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals. Sanju Samson makes the move to CSK at his existing fee of INR 18 crore, while RR receive two marquee names in return: Ravindra Jadeja, whose salary has been adjusted to INR 14 crore, and England all-rounder Sam Curran. This swap not only strengthens RR’s all-round options but also signals a strategic shift for CSK, who continue to rely on Samson as a cornerstone of their batting line-up.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals have also made further waves by signing South African wicketkeeper-batter Donovan Ferreira from Delhi Capitals for INR 1 crore. Delhi Capitals, in turn, acquired Nitish Rana from Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 4.2 crore, enhancing their middle-order options ahead of the season.
As expected, leg-spinner Mayank Markande returns to Mumbai Indians from KKR, adding depth to their spin department. With these transfers, the balance of power in IPL 2025 has shifted dramatically. Fans and analysts alike are predicting a much more competitive season, with several teams capable of mounting serious title challenges.
This flurry of trades marks one of the most eventful deadline days in IPL history, highlighting both the strategic planning of franchises and the increasing monetary stakes involved in acquiring top talent. With the season just around the corner, supporters can expect a thrilling campaign filled with unpredictable results and blockbuster performances.