Months after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League 2025 season, speculations emerged over Sanju Samson's future at Rajasthan Royals.
Several media houses reported that Samson is ready to part ways with RR for a fresh start ahead of the IPL 2026 season and RR could send out their captain on a trade deal.
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Samson was linked with a move to several IPL franchises, including Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. Many experts even backed Samson's move to CSK as they thought that the India star would be a perfect like-for-like long-term replacement for the legendary MS Dhoni.
KKR, on the other hand, are in search of a senior star who is capable of leading the franchise. After Shreyas Iyer's departure from the team, veteran batting star Ajinkya led the team in IPL 2025, but they finished below the top four in the campaign.
READ: Sanju Samson IPL 2026 team, salary: Will he play for RR
DC show interest in wantaway RR captain Sanju Samson
According to TOI's Gaurav Gupta, Delhi Capitals are reportedly eyeing a move for Samson before the IPL 2026 season. However, the franchise isn't quite sure which player to offer in a trade deal to lure RR to release Samson.
DC currently have several senior figures in their ranks. Experienced Indian all-rounder currently leads the franchise, while wicket-keeper batter KL Rahul is also a big name in their dressing room.
KKR wants to sign KL Rahul
While DC could consider sending Rahul the other way to sign Samson in a trade deal from RR, KKR are in the mix to sign Rahul from DC ahead of the new season.
As mentioned earlier, KKR are keen on bringing in an experienced name to their squad, who is capable of headlining the franchise and leading them and also batting at the top of the order.
The three-time champions are also in search of a capable wicket-keeper and KL Rahul currently ticks all of the above boxes.
MORE: IPL 2026 Auction: Date, Players List, Rules & Mini-Auction Preview
When is the IPL 2026 auction?
The IPL 2026 mini auction is expected to take place on 15th December 2025 in Mumbai, though the BCCI is yet to make an official announcement. Reports suggest Mumbai remains the frontrunner due to its strong IPL legacy and logistical convenience, while Delhi is being considered as a backup option.
The event will be a one-day mini-auction, marking the start of crucial squad reshuffles ahead of the new season. Fans can expect formal confirmation from the BCCI in the coming weeks.
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