5 Delhi Capitals Players Who Could Join Rajasthan Royals in a Potential Sanju Samson Trade Deal
With reports suggesting Sanju Samson may part ways with Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Delhi Capitals have emerged as strong contenders for his signature. Here’s a look at five DC players who could move to RR as part of the blockbuster trade deal.
Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals’ top scorer, could reunite with Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2026.
The captain of Rajasthan Royals and its longest-serving cricketer, Sanju Samson, may be moving on before the 2026 IPL auctions. Reports claim that wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson is unhappy and is looking for new opportunities. He is the franchise's top scorer with the most runs.
Sources say like Delhi Capitals (DC) have a keen interest in acquiring Samson and may be negotiating a player-plus-cash type of trade with Rajasthan Royals. It's interesting to note that Samson had earlier played for DC in 2016-17, when he faced 28 matches and scored 677 runs at a strike rate of 127.25.
As discussions go forward, here are five DC players who could go the other way in a potential swap deal for Sanju Samson.
1. Tristan Stubbs
The South African power-hitter has been a consistent performer for DC, scoring 678 runs in 28 IPL matches. Stubbs, retained for ₹10 crore last season, could provide RR with a solid middle-order option if Samson departs. Reports suggest DC are open to including him in the trade package.
2. Axar Patel
DC’s stand-in skipper for the 2025 IPL season, Axar Patel brings experience and balance as an all-rounder. Retained for ₹18 crore, he has contributed 1230 runs and 67 wickets in 94 matches for Delhi. RR could benefit from his leadership qualities and finishing ability.
3. KL Rahul
Another big name in the mix is KL Rahul, who joined DC for ₹14 crore during the last mega auction. The stylish right-hander amassed 539 runs in 13 games in IPL 2025. RR might see him as a direct replacement for Samson, given his proven record as an opener and captain.
4. Kuldeep Yadav
The left-arm spinner has been one of DC’s key weapons in recent seasons. Kuldeep Yadav, retained for ₹13.25 crore, has picked up 62 wickets in 53 matches for Delhi. RR, known for banking on quality spinners, could find him an ideal addition to their bowling attack.
5. Ashutosh Sharma
One of DC’s breakout stars from IPL 2025, Ashutosh Sharma impressed as a finisher and “impact player.” Given RR’s need for a lower-order power-hitter, he could be traded along with cash considerations in a deal for Samson.
With the IPL auction in 2026 around the corner, the prospective Sanju Samson trade could become one of the most important stories of the season. Both the franchises will probably go through every option available to them before finalizing their retainers and trades.
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