Rishabh Pant (who was the captain of DC from 2022 to 2024) was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a record ₹27 crore in the 2025 mega auction. But he has now accepted a lower package of ₹15 crore in return to Delhi.
The deal is for Kuldeep Yadav, the chinaman spinner, to go to LSG on his existing ₹13.25 crore contract. This deal is pending final approval from the BCCI, but insiders are hoping that both franchises can work out the deal quickly, i.e. the swap is still underway, by the end of the week.
Pant’s time at LSG was one of the few who failed, the team was seventh in 2025 and tenth in 2026. His return to Delhi is a boost to the team’s confidence level with Sourav Ganguly as the Director of Cricket and new coach Yuvraj Singh. DC owner Parth Jindal was in favor of Pant’s reunion as he felt that Pant’s aggressive style of playing and leadership would bring back the team’s playoff hopes.
For LSG the trade is financial relief and strategic advantage. By selling Pant’s hefty contract they free up purse space and get Kuldeep Yadav, a proven match‑winner and a home‑state star who could help in their spin department. It’s also a good move to LSG’s long‑term goal of creating a balanced squad over two below‑par campaigns.
Pant’s decision to accept a reduced salary shows his desire to return to familiar territory and revive his career with the franchise where he first made his mark. Delhi Capitals fans love this news so much the team will be able to think of turning around in the IPL 2027 in future.
All in all, the Pant‑Kuldeep trade is one of the most high-profile swaps in the past IPL history. Delhi Capitals will have their talismanic leader back at a reduced price while Lucknow Super Giants get a good spinner and financial flexibility. With the BCCI approval, this homecoming will change both teams' fortunes in the upcoming season.
