IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Eye Sanju Samson Trade, Rajasthan Royals Want Tristan Stubbs

In a big move ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson could be making a return to the Delhi Capitals, with the team likely to trade Tristan Stubbs to the Rajasthan Royals (RR). The trade talks are happening just weeks before the mini-auction.

With Samson expected to leave Rajasthan, both franchises have been in regular discussions, exploring different trade possibilities, according to a TOI report. The report also mentioned that while Delhi Capitals are very interested in bringing Samson back, they don’t want to part ways with any of their main players. Meanwhile, Indian Test opener KL Rahul’s name was also mentioned during the trade talks.

Samson May Return to Delhi Capitals

However, Delhi were unwilling to let go of him, given that he was one of their standout performers last season and continues to hold significant brand value for the franchise.

As per reports, Rajasthan Royals were open to bringing Stubbs into their squad but also demanded an additional uncapped cricketer as part of the deal. However, Delhi Capitals declined the request, which has strengthened the possibility of Sanju Samson returning to the DC colours in the next IPL season.

It is also known that in the past few months, Rajasthan have talked to other teams about trading Samson, including an offer to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) that involved Ravindra Jadeja. The Royals reportedly suggested a Samson-for-Jadeja swap, but the talks failed to progress beyond the initial stage.

KKR Shows Interest in KL Rahul

As things stand, Samson’s move to Delhi and Stubbs’ transfer to Rajasthan remain on the cards, provided there are no last-minute hurdles. Meanwhile, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are trying to sign Rahul, as they want an experienced leader and reliable top-order batter.

KKR’s new head coach, Abhishek Nayar, shares a good bond with Rahul, and the team management is eager to bring him in. However, at the moment, KKR doesn’t seem to have any player that Delhi would be interested in trading for.

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