In a significant player exchange ahead of the next Indian Premier League season, Rishabh Pant is set to reunite with Delhi Capitals (DC), while star spinner Kuldeep Yadav will join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The trade marks one of the most talked-about moves of the IPL off-season, bringing two established Indian internationals to new chapters in their careers.
The deal comes after Pant’s stint with Lucknow Super Giants, where he had been acquired for a record-breaking amount during the IPL auction. Following changes within the franchise and Pant stepping away from the team’s leadership role after the season, both sides have now agreed to the trade.
Rishabh Pant Heads Back to Familiar Territory
Rishabh Pant’s return to Delhi Capitals carries emotional and cricketing significance. The wicketkeeper-batter spent the majority of his IPL career with the Delhi franchise and developed into one of India’s most exciting white-ball cricketers while representing the team.
Pant first joined Delhi in 2016 and went on to become a central figure in the franchise’s batting lineup. Over nine seasons, he established himself as a match-winner capable of changing games with his aggressive stroke play and fearless approach.
During his previous spell with Delhi Capitals, Pant featured in 111 matches and played a major role in several successful campaigns. His return is expected to strengthen the team’s batting unit while also bringing leadership experience and familiarity with the franchise’s culture.
From Record Auction Pick to Trade Deal
The move is particularly notable because Pant had become the most expensive player in IPL history when Lucknow Super Giants secured his services for ₹27 crore at the IPL 2025 auction.
However, under the new trade arrangement, Pant will return to Delhi Capitals on a salary of ₹15 crore. While the financial details differ from his auction price, the transfer gives Delhi a proven performer who already understands the team’s environment and expectations.
For Delhi Capitals, the acquisition represents more than just signing a star player. It reunites the franchise with one of its most recognizable faces and a cricketer who has played a major role in its journey over the last decade.
Kuldeep Yadav Begins a New Journey with Lucknow
As part of the trade, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav will move from Delhi Capitals to Lucknow Super Giants. Kuldeep joins LSG on his existing contract value of ₹13.5 crore.
The spinner leaves Delhi after a highly successful five-season association. Since joining the franchise in 2022, he rediscovered his best form and became one of the team’s most reliable wicket-taking bowlers.
Over 65 matches for Delhi Capitals, Kuldeep claimed 72 wickets and consistently delivered crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs. His performances helped establish him as one of the premier spinners in the league during this period.
A Homecoming of Sorts for Both Players
Interestingly, the trade carries a sense of homecoming for both cricketers.
While Rishabh Pant returns to the franchise where he built his IPL reputation, Kuldeep Yadav’s move to Lucknow brings him closer to his roots. The spinner has represented Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket, making his switch to the Lucknow-based franchise a natural fit from a regional perspective.
The move could also provide Kuldeep with a fresh challenge and a key role in Lucknow’s bowling attack as the franchise looks to strengthen its squad for future campaigns.
What the Trade Means for the Two Teams
For Delhi Capitals, bringing back Rishabh Pant adds experience, firepower, and a familiar leader to the squad. His presence is likely to boost both the batting order and the team’s overall balance.
Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants gain one of India’s most effective spin bowlers in Kuldeep Yadav. His ability to control the game and take wickets in crucial phases could make him a valuable asset for the franchise.
As preparations begin for the next IPL season, this high-profile trade has already generated considerable excitement among fans. Whether Pant’s return can help Delhi Capitals reach new heights and whether Kuldeep can make an immediate impact for Lucknow Super Giants will be among the key storylines to watch in the months ahead.
