New Delhi: With the Indian Premier League (IPL) trade window set to open, major transfer speculations are making headlines, involving two of the league’s biggest names. According to national media reports, Kerala star Sanju Samson is rumored to be on his way out from Rajasthan Royals (RR), with Delhi Capitals (DC) showing strong interest. In another potential blockbuster move, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are reportedly pursuing a deal to acquire Delhi Capitals’ KL Rahul.
Samson’s potential exit from Rajasthan has been a topic of discussion for months. The relationship between the player and the team management reportedly soured during the 2025 season. After being sidelined with an injury, Samson allegedly had disagreements over several issues, including the appointment of a temporary captain, and subsequently expressed his desire to leave the franchise. This follows the departure of coach Rahul Dravid, who also left the RR camp due to differences with the management. After a playoff appearance in 2024, the Royals had one of their worst seasons in 2025.
Delhi Capitals are actively searching for a new captain, as they are reportedly unsatisfied with Axar Patel’s leadership following Rishabh Pant’s move to Lucknow Super Giants last season. DC management believes Samson, who has previously played for the Delhi franchise, could be the perfect fit to fill this leadership void. Earlier, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had also held talks with Rajasthan for Samson, but the deal fell through when RR demanded either Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad in exchange.
Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders are keen on strengthening their batting department by signing KL Rahul, who had an impressive last season, scoring 539 runs at a solid strike rate. KKR is said to have offered a player-plus-cash deal involving Rovman Powell for Rahul, but the DC management has not yet agreed to the terms.
If the deal materializes, KKR sees the wicketkeeper-batsman as a solution to their long-standing captaincy and opening slot problems.
However, official confirmation on these trades is still pending. Franchises are required to submit their final list of retained players to the IPL by November 15. The player auction is tentatively scheduled for December 14 and 15, although these dates are yet to be officially confirmed.
