In a major development ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are reportedly in advanced discussions to trade their captain and star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson to Delhi Capitals (DC). According to a report by The Times of India published on November 1 (Saturday), the Royals are exploring a direct swap deal involving South African batter Tristan Stubbs.
Sanju Samson’s Possible Move Back to Delhi Capitals
Speculation about Samson’s future with the Rajasthan Royals has been circulating for months. The Kerala batter, who has led RR since 2021, is said to be keen on a fresh start ahead of the next IPL season. If the trade materializes, it would mark a homecoming for Samson, who previously played for the Delhi franchise during the 2016 and 2017 seasons.
As per TOI journalist Sahil Malhotra, the Royals initially explored multiple options before zeroing in on DC’s Tristan Stubbs. The report noted:
“KL Rahul’s name came up for discussions for the swap but DC were reluctant to let go of a player who had been their key performer last season and brings a lot of brand value. RR are happy with the idea of having Stubbs in their camp but also asked for another uncapped player alongside the South African. That, however, wasn’t entertained by the Capitals, and there is a bright possibility of seeing Samson back in DC colours from the next IPL season.”
Other Trade Talks: RR Approached CSK, KKR Targeting KL Rahul
The same report mentioned that Rajasthan Royals also approached Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a potential trade involving Ravindra Jadeja, but CSK declined the proposal.
Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are said to be showing strong interest in KL Rahul. However, the franchise currently lacks a suitable trade package to convince the Capitals. While veterans Andre Russell and Sunil Narine could theoretically be part of the discussions, both players are in their late 30s, and Delhi Capitals are reportedly focused on acquiring younger talents.
At the same time, KKR’s promising players Rinku Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy are considered untouchable by team management, leaving limited options for negotiation.
As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, fans are eagerly waiting to see if one of the league’s biggest stars, Sanju Samson, will indeed switch from Rajasthan Royals to Delhi Capitals, in what could be one of the biggest pre-auction trades in recent IPL history.
