The IPL trade window has rarely lived up to its full potential, with most exchanges ending lopsided. Very few trades have benefited both teams equally, and the trend might continue with the latest buzz surrounding a possible deal between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR).
Reports suggest that DC are keen on bringing in RR skipper Sanju Samson and are ready to part ways with South African rising star Tristan Stubbs in return. As per a Times of India report, both franchises are close to finalizing the swap, with Samson reportedly set on leaving RR and DC unwilling to give up any of their senior core players. However, letting go of Stubbs could prove costly for DC. Here are three reasons why this move may turn into a major blunder.
#1 Sanju Samson’s Star Power Should Not Outweigh The Value Of A Rare Young Talent
Sanju Samson offers DC solutions on multiple fronts — captaincy, wicketkeeping, and top-order batting — all departments where the franchise has struggled. His presence would bring experience, stability, and a strong brand image.
However, acquiring Samson at the cost of Tristan Stubbs could create new issues. Stubbs is not just another squad member; he is a once-in-a-generation talent who has already shown the ability to influence games. Samson may fix DC’s leadership concerns, but losing Stubbs could open up a much bigger long-term void.
#2 DC Would Lose The Player They Developed Just When He Is Entering His Prime
DC secured Stubbs for just INR 50 lakh at the 2024 auction, a deal that quickly turned into a masterstroke. He delivered 378 runs that season at an average of 54 and a strike rate of 190.91, becoming one of the biggest steals of the year.
His performances continued in 2025, scoring 300 runs at an average of 50 and maintaining excellent form internationally. At just 25, Stubbs is heading toward his peak years after building a strong foundation and overcoming early career lows. DC not only backed him but retained him as part of their long-term structure. Trading him now, after nurturing his growth, would mean gifting away a ready-made match-winner just when he is set to explode.
#3 DC’s Already Fragile Middle Order Will Fall Apart Without Stubbs
Stubbs has been the one consistent presence in DC’s unstable middle order over the last two seasons. Whether alongside Pant and Axar Patel in 2024 or promoted above the finisher role in 2025, he has delivered under pressure. With KL Rahul expected to open again, DC actually need *more* middle-order strength, not less.
Samson may strengthen the top order, but his inclusion does not fix the vacuum Stubbs will leave behind. Beyond Axar, DC have no reliable middle-order option, and backup names like Karun Nair or Sameer Rizvi are far from convincing. Replacing Stubbs’ skill set through the mini auction will be close to impossible, making the trade a risky miscalculation that DC could regret for years.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.