RR, LSG explore trade involving Shami and Curran
Manimaran Siddharth understood to be another player likely to be involved in the proposed exchange
Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants continue to be engaged in discussions over a potential multi-player trade involving Mohammed Shami and Sam Curran. Cricbuzz had reported on November 6 that the two franchises were negotiating a trade involving multiple players.
The players involved have been sounded out, although the paperwork is yet to be completed. If the deal goes through, it is unlikely to be a straight one-for-one exchange. Manimaran Siddharth, the left-arm spinner currently with LSG, is also understood to be part of the proposed deal and could move to Royals. The 28-year-old Tamil Nadu cricketer, acquired for INR 75 lakh, has played nine IPL games, all for LSG and taken nine wickets. This includes a prized wicket of Virat Kohli in 2024.
Shami and Curran were both traded ahead of the previous season. Curran moved from Chennai Super Kings to Rajasthan Royals as part of the exchange that also saw Ravindra Jadeja join the Royals and Sanju Samson move to CSK.
However, Curran did not feature in the IPL last season, citing injury. His subsequent appearances for his county side in England drew criticism from Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara, who questioned the all-rounder's unavailability for the franchise.
CSK had acquired Curran for INR 2.4 crore before trading him to RR at the same price. He is understood to be seeking a revised fee as part of the proposed move, which could be one of the factors holding up the negotiations. Curran has been in good form in T20 cricket and is also known to share a close relationship with Tom Moody, LSG's Director of Cricket, who he has played under for Oval Invincibles and Desert Vipers.
The franchises have also discussed a potential trade involving Yashasvi Jaiswal, although Cricbuzz understands that no concrete agreement has been reached so far. The Royals are believed to have sought another India pacer, but the proposal has not found acceptance from LSG. The Royals, however, are understood to have other options should they decide to trade Jaiswal, with multiple franchises having expressed interest in the India opener.
