Former India's head coach Ravi Shastri could stop himself from commenting on Ravindra Jadeja's potential trade with Rajasthan Royals. With IPL 2026 retention deadline approaching, the conversation surrounding Jadeja's blockbuster trade is only intensifying. The veteran India all-rounder is reportedly on the verge of a big move. He is poised to be traded to the Rajasthan Royals in what is shaping up to be a high-profile player transfer. This departure would truly signify the end of an era, as Jadeja has been a cornerstone of the CSK team since 2012, excluding the two years when the franchise faced suspension.
The relationship between Jadeja and CSK has experienced some turbulence over the past couple of seasons. This included his brief stint as captain followed by his subsequent removal from the role. The difficulties even extended to the crowd, with sections of the Chennai faithful notably cheering his dismissal at times, eager for the arrival of MS Dhoni at the crease. Given these challenging circumstances, it seems Jadeja is ready to conclude this long and storied chapter of his career, a sentiment that was all but confirmed by former India head coach Ravi Shastri.
I think Ravindra Jadeja knew where he was going from the beginning: Ravi Shastri
The topic came up during Jadeja's first over in the ongoing first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens when commentator Harsha Bhogle raised a relevant question, given the intensity of the off-field trade discussions, was Jadeja able to maintain his focus on cricket? Ravi Shastri swiftly dispelled any concerns, asserting that a player of Jadeja's caliber always possesses the professionalism and ability to prioritize their on-field responsibilities effectively.
"The talk is more for people on the outside. They are more interested in where he's going and how much he is making. I think he knew where he was going from the beginning. He was very clear, and his focus was cricket. Let the noise happen on the outside. Noise always happens in India. You know what you want, you know what's coming in your back pocket. I'll give you that, I mean, now. He is far too experienced. He's a gun cricketer, this fellow. I know, just the way he played in England. Over 500 runs in the series," Shastri was heard saying while commentary.
Jadeja moving to the RR is set to trigger an exchange that will see Sanju Samson head to CSK.
Talking about the match, India bowled out South Africa for a paltry 159, riding on Jasprit Bumrah's brilliant fifer (5/27).
India's Playing XI:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Shubman Gill(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
South Africa's Playing XI:
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma(c), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne(w), Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj