As the IPL 2026 mini-auction draws closer, all eyes are on the trade window that is currently open. The trading phase has already sparked plenty of drama, from reports of Sanju Samson’s possible move to CSK to speculations around top players being swapped for cash deals.
But how does this player trade process actually work? While the auction gets most of the attention every year, the trade window is where the real behind-the-scenes action happens.
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How do IPL trades actually happen between franchises?
A player trade in IPL means a cricketer switches teams without entering the auction again. This usually happens through one of two methods- a player swap (where teams exchange players) or a cash deal (where one team pays for a player’s transfer).
The trading window usually opens about a month after the IPL season ends and continues till a week before the next auction. It reopens later and stays active until about a month before the tournament begins.
In a one-way trade, the franchise buying the player pays a fee similar to the cricketer’s last auction value. If it’s a swap, both sides agree on the difference in prices between the two players.
READ: Sanju Samson to CSK confirmed? Former RR coach's cryptic social media post triggers transfer rumours
One big example was when Hardik Pandya returned to Mumbai Indians from Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2024. Mumbai reportedly paid Gujarat the all-rounder's original auction amount plus a transfer fee.
Similarly, Lucknow Super Giants and Rajasthan Royals made a two-way trade involving Avesh Khan and Devdutt Padikkal, with Lucknow also adding an extra ₹2.25 crore to balance the deal.
Why is player consent mandatory in IPL trades?
No player can be traded without their written permission. This rule ensures there is transparency and no player is forced into a move they don’t want.
Once a player agrees, both franchises negotiate the terms- whether it’s a swap, a cash deal, or a mix of both.
MORE: Will Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson swap teams?
Even though franchises technically have the final authority to release or retain a player, consent remains the first and most important step. Without it, trade discussions can’t even begin.
For instance, Gujarat Titans’ director Vikram Solanki once confirmed that Pandya himself requested to move back to Mumbai before the 2024 season. Similarly, reports suggest Sanju Samson has expressed his wish to leave Rajasthan Royals, which is why CSK entered the picture for talks.
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