Image: Fans celebrate the homecoming of Rishabh Pant to Delhi Capitals ahead of the new season / © Hindustan Times
Social Media is buzzing after the IPL announced a major trade involving Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav. Pant is heading back to the Delhi Capitals, the franchise where he made his name in the tournament. He spent 9 seasons with Delhi between 2016 and 2024 and played 111 matches for the team, more than any other player in the franchise’s history. He also served as captain from 2021 to 2024, leading Delhi in 43 matches.
His move is notable because only a year ago Lucknow Super Giants had spent INR 27 crore to sign him at the IPL auction, making him the most expensive player ever bought in the competition. As part of the trade, Pant will return to the Delhi Capitals on a contract worth INR 15 crore. Kuldeep Yadav will now begin a new chapter with Lucknow Super Giants. The spinner had been with Delhi Capitals since 2022 and became a regular performer for the side. In 65 matches for the franchise, he claimed 72 wickets and often delivered breakthroughs when the team needed them most.
Lucknow has taken Kuldeep at his current salary of INR 13.50 crore. Player trades are not uncommon in the IPL, but deals involving 2 established Indian internationals are rare. That is why this exchange has quickly become one of the biggest talking points among fans, with many already debating which franchise has come out on top before the next season has even begun.