IPL: Rishabh Pant poised for DC return as LSG eye Kuldeep Yadav swap
New Delhi, June 19
Lucknow Super Giants are reportedly set to release skipper Rishabh Pant, with a possible move back to his former team, Delhi Capitals, while potentially acquiring spinner Kuldeep Yadav in exchange, ESPNcricinfo reported.
Lucknow Super Giants are set to release Pant, who is expected to return to his former franchise, Delhi Capitals, in a trade worth Rs 15 crore (approx. US$1.5 million), after being bought by LSG for a record Rs 27 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction.
The two franchises are currently completing formalities of the deal and will require approval from the BCCI for final ratification.
Pant's move makes him the second high-profile player after Ravindra Jadeja to take a significant pay cut as part of an IPL trade.
Earlier, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals executed a major swap involving Jadeja and Sanju Samson ahead of IPL 2026, with adjustments in valuation across contracts.
According to ESPNcricinfo, Pant was also approached by two other franchises, including another multiple-time IPL champion, before the deal with Delhi Capitals progressed.
In return, LSG are set to acquire spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who represents Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket and is expected to align with the franchise representing his home state. Kuldeep endured a mixed IPL season after spending much of India's T20 World Cup campaign on the bench, but has been highly effective for DC since 2022, taking 72 wickets in 65 matches at an economy rate of 8.24.
Pant's stint with LSG lasted two seasons but produced underwhelming results. As captain, he managed 10 wins and 18 losses, while scoring 581 runs at an average of 26.4 and a strike rate of 135.74.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, LSG fans might be upset losing Pant, but look at it objectively: 10 wins and 18 losses as captain, strike rate of 135 in a format that demands 150+ nowadays. Kuldeep Yadav has been a match-winner for India and DC, taking 72 wickets in 65 matches. If LSG gets him and he returns to his home state franchise, that's a smart move. Sometimes you need to be practical in business, yaar. 🤷♀️
Interesting trade dynamics. Pant's pay cut from 27 crore to 15 crore is massive, but it shows he values being at DC over money. And Kuldeep Yadav for LSG could be a masterstroke—his economy of 8.24 in T20s is actually quite solid for a wrist spinner, and playing for his home state franchise might reignite his form. BCCI approval will be key, but this looks like a win-win.
Wait, isn't this the same Pant who was seen as the 'next Dhoni'? Giving him captaincy at LSG and then dumping him in two seasons seems harsh. But I get the business side—IPL is a ruthless league. DC fans must be ecstatic though; Pant returning home is like a Bollywood script. Just hope he stays fit this time and puts in consistent performances. 🔥
Smart play by LSG. Kuldeep Yadav has been underrated in T20s—his economy rate of 8.24 over 65 matches is impressive for a wrist spinner in the IPL era of power-hitting. Plus, having him represent Uttar Pradesh (his home state) will boost local fan engagement. Pant's star value is undeniable, but Delhi Capitals will need to manage his aggressive style better. Curious to see how this pans out. 📊
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