Indian Premier League (IPL) trade window has opened with a major development that could redefine two franchises ahead of the 2026 season. According to multiple reports, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are in the advanced stages of a trade agreement involving Sanju Samson. If confirmed, it would mark the end of Samson’s 11-year association with the Royals.

Samson, who captained Rajasthan Royals for several seasons, is reportedly determined to move on following internal disagreements with the management. Sources close to the situation revealed that his dissatisfaction grew after RR released If Buttlera move that reportedly did not sit well with the skipper. With the Royals unwilling to guarantee squad stability or leadership assurances, Samson requested a trade or entry into the IPL mini auction. The franchise appears open to a swap deal that would bring a young and dynamic middle-order option in exchange.

Sanju Samson’s swap in final negotiation stage

According to a report in the Times of India, negotiations between RR and DC have entered the closing stages. While Delhi Capitals were initially hesitant to trade any of their core players, they have shown serious interest in acquiring Samson to strengthen their top order. The report mentioned that multiple trading options were explored, but both franchises are now nearing a mutually beneficial settlement focused on Samson and Tristan Stubbs. The South African batter impressed for DC in IPL 2024 and remains one of the most promising power-hitters in the league.

Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, reportedly requested another uncapped Indian player to accompany Stubbs in the deal. However, Delhi Capitals declined to add any additional cricketers, citing their plan to retain key members of their squad. Still, the progress of talks suggests that a formal announcement could be imminent, with only minor financial and retention clauses left to be discussed.

Interestingly, the Royals had also shown interest in KL Rahul earlier in the trade window, but Delhi immediately turned down the idea of parting ways with their senior Indian batter. Rahul, who was among their consistent contributors last season, remains a part of DC’s long-term leadership vision.

Other franchises back out as the new franchise enters the race

Before Delhi Capitals emerged as frontrunners, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were considered the leading contenders to sign Samson. However, negotiations between RR and CSK fell through after Rajasthan reportedly demanded either Ravindra Jadeja or Travel Giikwad in return—an offer promptly rejected by the Chennai management. With that, the Delhi option regained momentum, and all indicators now point toward Samson being reunited with his first IPL home.

If completed, the trade will be one of the biggest pre-auction moves in recent IPL history. Samson’s switch could significantly reshape the Capitals’ batting lineup, while Rajasthan look to build afresh around Yashasvi Jaiswal. As the 2026 auction approaches, this blockbuster trade could set the tone for a high-voltage season of shuffling stars and new beginnings.