Captain of Rajasthan Royals (RR) Sanju Samson, who has been with the team for the longest and has made the most runs, is to put his right foot on the exit door before the IPL 2026 mini auction. The wicketkeeper-batsman is said to be looking for new possibilities after a successful period with RR, according to reports.
Delhi Capitals (DC), as per the insiders, are really interested in getting hold of Samson and they also have a player-plus-cash trade with Rajasthan in mind. Samson has already been with DC for the 2016-17 seasons and he scored 677 runs in 28 matches at a strike rate of 127.25.
As the negotiations get more serious, below are five players from Delhi Capitals that could be transferred to Rajasthan Royals in return for Sanju Samson.
- Tristan Stubbs
This South African hitting machine has been the main guy for DC with his 678 runs in 28 matches. The franchise decided to keep him for ₹10 crores last season and if RR decides to bring in a new middle-order player through the exit of Samson then Stubbs is said to be one of the key parts of the whole trade package.
- Axar Patel
DC’s Vice-Captain for the upcoming season (2025), Axar Patel, adds his leadership and balance with bat and ball to the team. The franchise made a decision to retain Axar for an enormous sum of ₹18 crore and he has contributed a total of 1,230 runs and 67 wickets in 94 matches playing for Delhi. His expertise and all-around ability make him a player that RR would want, especially a reliable vice-captain.
- KL Rahul
Tracing the most significant names that might be in for a swap, KL Rahul has joined DC for ₹14 crores under the last mega auction scoring 539 runs in 13 matches during IPL 2025. With his captaincy and batting consistency, Rahul could easily take up the position of RR’s top-order anchor and leader.
- Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav who is a dependable baller in times of need, has become crucial to the DC bowling unit. The left-handed spinner has claimed 62 wickets in 53 games and was retained for ₹13.25 crores. Given the spinning-friendly conditions at RR’s Jaipur ground, Kuldeep would be a tactical addition to their squad.
- Ashutosh Sharma
DC’s rising stars of IPL 2025 include Ashutosh Sharma, who has been able to do very well with his finishing and as an “impact player”. The aggressive batting of the lower-order could be a critical gap filler in RR’s lineup. A cash-plus-ashutosh deal appears to be a realistic option.
As the IPL 2026 auction approaches quickly, the trade of Sanju Samson-Delhi Capitals may be one of the most high-profile moves of the season. Both franchises are likely to take their time and ponder their choices before executing their retention and trade plans.
