India, April 5 -- Chennai Super Kings' gain was Rajasthan Royals' loss, at least that was the narrative in November last year when Sanju Samson made a high-profile move. Samson was a homegrown talent for Rajasthan, who later went on to captain the side for five consecutive seasons from 2021 to 2025, including a run to the final in 2022, their first appearance in the summit clash since the victorious 2008 season. He had become the face of Rajasthan, and losing him was a massive blow.

Rajasthan had big shoes to fill, and options were limited. Ravindra Jadeja, who joined Rajasthan as part of the Samson trade deal, seemed the obvious choice, a seasoned campaigner and experienced leader, even if his stint with Chennai as captain remained a bl...