The IPL 2026 trade window is currently wide and open, with two high-profile names – Sanju Samson and KL Rahul – doing the rounds for major swaps. Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have shown interest in a grand trade.
Sanju Samson has already expressed his desire to part ways with Rajasthan Royals (RR) after a challenging IPL 2025 season. Samson is said to have informed the team management about his decision to seek new opportunities soon after the season ended in June.
Sanju Samson and KL Rahul set for possible IPL 2026 swap
One of the main reasons behind the Indian wicketkeeper-batsman’s decision is the growing differences with the team management. Additionally, Samson is interested in joining a more high-profile franchise that can help expand his personal brand.
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According to a report by a Times of India journalist, Delhi Capitals (DC) are targeting Sanju Samson to strengthen their squad. On the other hand, KL Rahul, who joined the Capitals last season, is reportedly on the radar of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a possible leadership role.
Sanju Samson likely to join Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals, who are looking for a new captain after Rishabh Pant’s move to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), are reportedly in talks with Samson for the captaincy role ahead of IPL 2026. Discussions are ongoing, and both sides are reportedly keen on the move.
Notably, Samson had already played for the Delhi-based franchise in the IPL before joining RR. Earlier, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had shown interest in Samson, but Rajasthan Royals reportedly asked for either Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad in return, and the franchise refused.
KKR eyeing KL Rahul in trade talks ahead of IPL auction
Meanwhile, KL Rahul, who had a stellar performance with DC in IPL 2025, is reportedly the target of Kolkata Knight Riders. KKR are keen on Rahul’s services and have reportedly sent a message for the move. The reason behind this is the right-handed batsman’s brilliant performance in IPL 2025, where he scored 539 runs at a strike rate of around 150.
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Well, KKR are reportedly interested in acquiring Rahul through a trade deal and are even considering making him the captain. His eyes are on Rahul as an opening batsman and wicketkeeper.
However, DC is reportedly unwilling to part ways with Rahul and has rejected KKR’s cash-plus-Rovman Powell offer. Delhi sees Rahul as a key player and has no plans to release him.
A Times of India journalist posted,
Some? #IPLTradeUpdate
Delhi Capitals is keen to include Sanju Samson in their team. However, they are not sure which player they can trade with RR. Meanwhile, the rumors of KL Rahul moving to KKR are still strong and the team actually sees KL as the captain, opening batsman and potentially their solution– Gaurav Gupta (@toi_gauravG) 15 October 2025
Notably, the IPL 2026 auction is likely to take place between December 13 and 15. Although the IPL Governing Council has not officially announced the dates, this is the expected window for the auction. On the other hand, the deadline to retain a player is November 15.
