Ahead of IPL 2027 retentions, RR and LSG explore multi-player trade involving Sam Curran and Mohammed Shami
The IPL 2027 retention window is approaching, and franchises have started exploring major squad changes ahead of the next season. Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are reportedly in discussions over a multi-player trade involving England all-rounder Sam Curran and India’s experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, the proposed deal could see Shami move to Rajasthan Royals, while Curran heads to Lucknow Super Giants. LSG left-arm spinner Manimaran Siddharth is also understood to be part of the negotiations.
The IPL 2027 retention deadline is November 17, 2026, after being extended by two days from the original November 15 date.
Mohammed Shami-Sam Curran trade: What is the proposed deal?
The negotiations involve more than a straightforward exchange between two players.
Shami currently carries a contract value of ₹10 crore, while Curran’s existing IPL salary is ₹2.40 crore. The significant difference in their valuations means additional player movement and financial adjustments are required.
Manimaran, who joined LSG for ₹75 lakh, could also move to Rajasthan as part of the proposed arrangement. The 28-year-old Tamil Nadu spinner has played nine IPL matches, all for Lucknow, and has claimed nine wickets.
Although the players involved have reportedly been approached, the paperwork remains incomplete.
Why Rajasthan Royals want Mohammed Shami?
Rajasthan Royals are reportedly looking to strengthen their Indian pace-bowling department by bringing in Shami.
The experienced fast bowler remains one of India’s most accomplished seamers and offers the ability to generate movement with the new ball. His experience could be particularly valuable alongside overseas fast bowler Jofra Archer.
Shami’s potential arrival would also provide Rajasthan with an experienced campaigner capable of guiding younger players, including emerging batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
The Royals struggled to maintain consistency in their bowling combinations during IPL 2026. Adding a proven international fast bowler could help address that concern ahead of the next campaign.
Why Lucknow Super Giants are interested in Sam Curran?
For LSG, the proposed trade could address two important requirements: improving their all-round options and creating additional financial flexibility.
Curran offers value with both bat and ball. The England international can contribute in the middle order, provide a left-handed batting option and bowl during different phases of a T20 innings.
His familiarity with LSG director of cricket Tom Moody could also work in his favour. The two have previously worked together at the Oval Invincibles and Desert Vipers.
Another important factor is Curran’s current contract value. Replacing Shami’s ₹10 crore contract with Curran’s ₹2.40 crore deal could free up significant purse space for Lucknow ahead of the IPL 2027 auction.
Curran, however, is reportedly seeking a revised salary, which could be one of the reasons behind the delay in negotiations.
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Curran joined RR ahead of IPL 2026 in the trade involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson. However, he did not feature in a single match during the season after citing injury.
His subsequent appearances for his county side in England reportedly attracted criticism from RR head coach Kumar Sangakkara, who questioned his unavailability for the franchise.
A move to Lucknow could offer Curran an opportunity to revive his IPL career and become an important part of a new squad combination.
Yashasvi Jaiswal also part of RR-LSG trade discussions
Interestingly, the two franchises have also explored a possible trade involving Rajasthan opener Yashasvi Jaiswal.
However, no concrete agreement has emerged from those discussions. RR reportedly sought another Indian fast bowler as part of the proposal, but LSG were unwilling to accept the terms.
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