Rajasthan Royals owner Manoj Badale has revealed that Ravindra Jadeja initiated conversations about returning to the franchise nearly a month ago, expressing excitement at the prospect of coming “home.” Jadeja, who began his IPL journey with the Royals and played a key role in their title-winning campaign in 2008, has officially rejoined the team for the 2025 season.
Jadeja reached out expressing desire to return
Badale said that Jadeja contacted him around mid-October, sharing his eagerness to return to the franchise where his cricketing visibility first began. “Jaddu reached out to me about four weeks ago… saying he was excited about the possibility of coming ‘home,’ back to where he started his IPL career,” Badale said in an interaction on RR’s YouTube channel.
Jadeja, fondly called a “rockstar” by the late Shane Warne during his early RR days, had last played for the team in 2010. He later represented Kochi Tuskers Kerala before moving to Chennai Super Kings, where he won three IPL titles and emerged as a match-winner in all formats.
Badale added that reconnecting with the veteran all-rounder after more than a decade was a refreshing experience. “The last time I saw him he was 21, so it’s been fascinating getting to know the older version of Ravi Jadeja,” he said.
Trade included Sam Curran as a key component
The Royals owner stressed that the trade was not solely about bringing Jadeja back, but also about securing England all-rounder Sam Curran. “It wasn’t a trade for Jadeja alone. It was a trade for Jadeja and Sam Curran… The combination of the two and how they collectively fill three or four roles we need for the next season—that’s what made it compelling,” Badale explained.
Curran, who is known for his dynamic hitting and wicket-taking abilities, is expected to add depth to the squad alongside Jadeja as RR reshape their team composition for the upcoming season.
Royals reshape squad ahead of IPL 2025
Rajasthan Royals have made notable decisions during the retention window—releasing Wanindu Hasaranga and Mahesh Theekshana—leaving them with ₹16.05 crore in their purse and nine spots to fill at the auction. Jadeja and Curran form two major additions as the franchise focuses on strengthening its core ahead of the new season.
Jadeja’s first stint with RR
During his first tenure with the Royals, Jadeja played 27 matches across two seasons, scoring 430 runs and picking up six wickets. His all-round promise at the time caught the attention of fans and experts alike, setting the stage for his rise to become one of India’s most dependable cricket stars.
Conclusion
Jadeja’s return marks a full-circle moment for both the player and the franchise, reuniting a star who once burst onto the scene under the mentorship of Shane Warne. With Sam Curran joining him, the Royals appear poised for a strong 2025 campaign as they rebuild with a mix of experience and versatility.