There has always been a silent rhythm in how Sanju Samson moves between franchises, as if every return carries unfinished business. His journey in the Indian Premier League started in 2012 with Kolkata Knight Riders, but he built his identity as a cricketer under the Rajasthan Royals badge.
Between 2013 and 2024, except for two years at Delhi Daredevils in 2016 and 2017, Samson carried the heartbeat of Rajasthan’s batting order. His presence and bursts of aggression turned him into their most recognisable figure. However, the bond between player and franchise now shows strain.
Over the past few months, talk around a possible fallout has grown louder. The Times of India reported that the Rajasthan Royals and Samson plan to part ways before the IPL 2026 auction. Chennai Super Kings first explored a swap, but they refused to trade Ravindra Jadeja and ended the talks.
That decision pushed the Royals to look elsewhere, and soon Delhi Capitals re-entered the picture. The two sides discussed a possible trade, but neither wants to compromise. Delhi reportedly offered Tristan Stubbs, valuing him at INR 10 crore, while Samson’s worth stands at INR 18 crore. The Royals then asked Delhi to include an uncapped player or pay the difference in cash to balance the deal. Though uncertainty surrounds the situation, both camps continue the talks quietly and hint that a reunion could still happen.
Would Delhi Capitals gain more than they give?
If Delhi Capitals bring Samson back, they would make a move filled with nostalgia and careful thinking. Samson enjoyed his best IPL seasons while leading teams, where his batting freedom merged with responsibility.
Samson’s presence could steady Delhi’s temperament. His experience leading Rajasthan through uneven seasons gives him a calmness that Delhi sometimes lack in tense matches, but teams win through balance, not emotion. If Delhi spend nearly INR 18 crore on him, they must structure their squad around his strengths instead of forcing him into a crowded line-up.
As of November 2025, Samson stands as one of India’s finest white-ball batters, yet Delhi’s success might depend more on building their younger core than reviving old partnerships. Still, for fans, the thought of Samson returning to Delhi’s blue keeps the story alive until the final word drops.
