The Indian Premier League is already building hype even before the auction. We might see some major trades before the IPL 2026 mini-auction, as many franchises are planning to change their core squad. Franchises have to finalize their retained and released list by November 15, 2025, and submit it to the BCCI.
From Rajasthan Royals to Lucknow Super Giants, some franchises are aggressively working to trade some players before the IPL 2026 auction. Players like Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, Ishan Kisan, and Tristan Stubbs are expected to be part of a possible trade with other franchises.
Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals to Delhi Capitals)
Delhi Capitals have been actively in talks with Rajasthan Royals for Sanju Samson. As per the media reports, Sanju Samson is expected to join Delhi as a captain and Tristan Stubbs will go to the Rajasthan Royals before the IPL 2026 auction. Things are not good in the RR camp, that’s why we are seeing such a big trade.
Sanju Samson has been leading the Rajasthan Royals for a long time, and he is the face of that franchise, but it’s now almost confirmed that he will not be a part of RR in the upcoming season.
KL Rahul (Delhi Capitals to Kolkata Knight Riders)
Kolkata Knight Riders are interested in KL Rahul as they need someone who can lead the team for a long run and also become the face of the franchise in the Indian Premier League. KL Rahul has been part of lots of franchises in this tournament, and he is a phenomenal player with great cricketing skills.
Ishan Kishan (Sunrisers Hyderabad to Mumbai Indians)
Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals want to trade with Sunrisers Hyderabad for Ishan Kisan. However, the chances are quite low, but Sunrisers can be released as they have plenty of options at his position, and Ishan’s performance couldn’t justify the price tag.
Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings to Gujarat Titans)
As per the media reports, Chennai Super Kings are set to release Sam Curran ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, but they are also looking for a quality player in trade with Sam Curran. The Gujarat Titans are quite interested in this trade as they need some quality all-rounders in their team.
Venkatesh Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders to Sunrisers Hyderabad):
Sunrisers Hyderabad might go for Venkatesh Iyer in a trade with the Kolkata Knight Riders. But, there are high chances that KKR will release him in the IPL 2026 auction to increase their purse value so that they can have better young talents in their squad.
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