Avesh Khan Supports Rishabh Pant-Kuldeep Yadav Trade Ahead of IPL 2026

Avesh Khan Weighs in on Major IPL Trade

Indore (Madhya Pradesh) [India], June 25: Indian pacer Avesh Khan has expressed his support for the Lucknow Super Giants' decision to trade captain Rishabh Pant to the Delhi Capitals in exchange for spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He believes this move could be advantageous for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

In an interview prior to the Chambal Ghariyals' semi-final match against the Jabalpur Royal Lions at Holkar Stadium, Avesh remarked that Kuldeep's addition would greatly enhance the Lucknow squad, especially on their home turf.

“The management made this decision based on their requirements. I think it’s a beneficial trade for both franchises. Delhi has welcomed back Rishabh Pant, while we have acquired Kuldeep, whose expertise as a world-class spinner will be invaluable for us on our expansive home ground,” Avesh stated.

This trade marks one of the most significant moves in IPL history, with Pant returning to the franchise where he began his IPL journey. After moving to Lucknow before the 2025 season, Pant faced challenges during his two-year tenure, despite being one of the league's highest earners. Kuldeep, on the other hand, joins Lucknow after solidifying his status as one of India's top white-ball spinners.

Following the trade, Pant's IPL salary will see a notable decrease, now set at Rs 15 crore with the Capitals, while Kuldeep will maintain his current salary of Rs 13.50 crore with Lucknow.

Avesh also praised the depth and quality of India's fast-bowling talent, attributing this to the competitive nature of domestic cricket and the IPL, which has fostered a new generation of pace bowlers.

“Indeed, it’s among the best. The IPL and domestic leagues have become so competitive that we are witnessing the emergence of many talented fast bowlers, such as Gurnoor Brar and Prince Yadav, alongside established stars like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj,” he noted.

India's pace bowling resources have expanded significantly in recent years, with young talents like Gurnoor Brar and Prince Yadav gaining international acclaim alongside seasoned players like Bumrah, Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana.

Discussing the challenges of maintaining a long career as a fast bowler, Avesh emphasized the significance of fitness and managing workload effectively.

“Fitness, nutrition, and rest are essential. A fast bowler must prioritize a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and focus on training and workload management. Being aware of your body and training smartly can enhance longevity and reduce injury risks,” he explained.

The 29-year-old is currently playing for the Chambal Ghariyals, who have remained unbeaten in the MPL T20 2026 and will compete against the Jabalpur Royal Lions in the second semi-final on Thursday. The victor will face either the Royal Nimar Eagles or the Rewa Jaguars in Friday's final.

Avesh credited Chambal's success to a well-rounded team and a fearless mindset throughout the tournament, while also sharing his aspirations beyond the MPL season.

“The Ranji Trophy is next on my agenda. I will concentrate on my fitness and bowling to prepare for it and assist Madhya Pradesh in clinching the title,” he stated.

Avesh was a crucial part of Madhya Pradesh's first Ranji Trophy-winning campaign in the 2021-22 season, and he now aims to carry his form from the MPL into the domestic red-ball season for further success with his state team.