The IPL trade window has suddenly come alive after a cryptic Instagram story from Matheesha Pathirana’s manager sent fans into a frenzy.
The post, which simply read “Loading…”, has fueled fresh rumours that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) might include the Sri Lankan pacer in a blockbuster trade deal to bring Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson to Chennai.
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Reports have already suggested that a potential trade involving Ravindra Jadej a and another key CSK player, possibly Sam Curran or Pathirana, is being discussed.
With the IPL retention deadline approaching, the negotiations between the two franchises are believed to be in their final stages.
Is CSK really preparing a mega trade for Sanju Samson?
According to reports, CSK have been in talks with Rajasthan Royals for months, with the franchise showing strong interest in bringing Samson to Chepauk as a possible successor to MS Dhoni.
The discussions reportedly picked up pace during the Major League Cricket season in the US, where Samson is believed to have met CSK officials in person.
While Dhoni’s participation in the next IPL season still remains uncertain, Samson’s potential arrival could give CSK a fresh start with a new leader at the helm.
Both Samson and Jadeja were retained last season for ₹18 crore each, making the deal financially feasible for both franchises if finalised before November 15.
READ: How did Dhoni end the rift speculations between Kohli and Dhawan?
Will CSK let go of Matheesha Pathirana in the trade deal?
This is where things get tricky. Rajasthan Royals are said to be interested in Pathirana, the young Sri Lankan fast bowler who has impressed everyone with his slingy action and death-over accuracy.
However, CSK are reportedly reluctant to release him, viewing him as a long-term investment. Initially, CSK offered Sam Curran as part of the trade, but Rajasthan seem to prefer Pathirana.
With the Sri Lankan pacer’s manager posting the word “Loading…” on Instagram, fans have gone into overdrive speculating that a major announcement might be on the way.
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