Samson set to join Delhi Capitals in swap for Tristan Stubbs

Sanju Samson is poised to leave the Rajasthan Royals and rejoin the Delhi Capitals in a high-profile trade being negotiated ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, with the likely exchange sending Delhi’s Tristan Stubbs to Rajasthan, according to multiple reports. The discussions accelerated in the weeks before the retention deadline and auction, and parties have been working through the terms of a swap that would reshape both squads ahead of next season.

People involved in the talks say Delhi is keen to add Samson, an experienced Indian wicketkeeper-batter and former Royals captain, but has been reluctant to part with core members of its squad. Rajasthan’s negotiating position reportedly included requests for established players in return, and at one point the Royals sought veteran allrounders and other high-value names, proposals that some suitors declined. A journalist following the discussions said earlier that Chennai Super Kings had stepped back after Rajasthan’s demands and were no longer pursuing a deal.

Samson has formally asked Rajasthan to release him so he can explore other options, sources said, and franchises including Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Lucknow have been...