Sanju Samson’s proposed trade to Delhi Capitals collapsed after Rajasthan Royals made unexpected demands, leaving his IPL 2025 future uncertain. (Image Credit: X/ @RR_for_LIFE)
Sanju Samson, long-time Rajasthan Royals captain and face, was reportedly on the verge of a trade to Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2025 IPL season.
Discussions had progressed to the point that even senior players and a few overseas stars in Delhi were aware of the impending move. Sources indicated that only an official announcement remained before the trade could be finalized.
Even as that seemed like all but a done deal, it fell through at the last minute, thereby leaving Samson's future in limbo. The wicket-keeper batter, who has been a part of RR for over a decade now, has opened talks with the Chennai Super Kings for a possible swap deal in lieu of Ravindra Jadeja.
The collapse reportedly came after Rajasthan Royals made an unexpected demand during negotiations. Initially, RR asked Delhi to include South African middle-order batter Tristan Stubbs in the trade package.
While DC was reportedly prepared to accommodate this, RR later insisted that uncapped batter Sameer Rizvi also be included in the deal.
The management of Delhi Capitals rejected this second demand outright, which collapsed the trade. Negotiations reportedly were at an advanced stage as both teams had serious discussions, but RR’s insistence on more players resulted in an impasse.
Samson has been with RR since 2013 as the mainstay for the franchise across 11 seasons. From a promising young talent, Samson evolved into a dependable captain and one of the most consistent performers in the league. As captain of RR in 67 matches, he attained a balanced leadership impact with 33 wins and losses each.
He had his most prolific season in 2024, scoring 531 runs at an average of 48.27 and a strike rate of 153.47. Retained for a hefty Rs 18 crore ahead of the 2025 season, Samson’s role in the Royals’ setup has been pivotal.
The failed deal in Delhi means the franchise will now focus on negotiating a swap with CSK, involving Ravindra Jadeja, probably along with another player.
After the collapse of the Delhi trade, RR have reportedly approached Chennai Super Kings to explore a possible swap deal.
Initial discussions suggest that RR want CSK to include a player other than Jadeja as part of the arrangement, with names such as Sam Curran and Matheesha Pathirana being floated.
A swap with CSK will give Samson the fresh challenge he reportedly is seeking and in return give RR the strategic balance desired.
This move may also impact the composition of the CSK squad going into the IPL 2025 season, thereby providing a win-win if this deal goes through.
With the Delhi Capitals' deal off, all eyes will be on the upcoming swap talks with Chennai now. At 31, Samson still is one of the most experienced and high-impact players in the league.
Over the last decade, the performances of Samson have made him one of the top T20 batters in India and an established and experienced captain in high-pressure situations.
The IPL fraternity will be keenly observing the development of the negotiations. Whether Samson ultimately lands up at CSK or stays with RR for another season, his impact in the tournament is going to be considerable.
The failed Delhi trade only heightened speculation, making him one of the most discussed names in the IPL ecosystem this season.
