Major IPL Trade: Rishabh Pant Returns to Delhi Capitals, Kuldeep Yadav Joins Lucknow Super Giants
Significant Player Trade in IPL
In a landmark trade within the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rishabh Pant, the captain of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has been transferred to Delhi Capitals (DC). In exchange, spinner Kuldeep Yadav will be heading to Lucknow, as confirmed by an official IPL announcement.
Financial Adjustments Post-Trade
Following this trade, Pant's salary will decrease significantly, with his new contract at Delhi Capitals set at Rs 15 crore. Conversely, Kuldeep Yadav will maintain his current salary of Rs 13.50 crore after joining the Lucknow franchise.
Official Statement from IPL
"Rishabh Pant, formerly the captain of Lucknow Super Giants, is making a return to Delhi Capitals, while Kuldeep Yadav will be joining Lucknow Super Giants. This trade marks one of the most notable player exchanges in IPL history," stated the IPL.
Pant's Legacy with Delhi Capitals
The IPL statement elaborated on Pant's long-standing relationship with DC, noting that he played for the franchise for nine seasons from 2016 to 2024, making 111 appearances—the highest for any player in DC history. He also captained the team in 43 matches over four seasons.
Auction Insights and Contract Changes
The IPL highlighted the changes in Pant's auction value and contract following the trade. Pant was initially acquired by LSG for a record Rs 27 crore during the TATA IPL 2025 Player Auction. His return to DC comes with a revised fee of Rs 15 crore.
Kuldeep Yadav's Transition to Lucknow
Regarding Kuldeep's transfer, the IPL noted his successful tenure with Delhi Capitals, where he played for five seasons. Since joining in 2022, he has taken 72 wickets in 65 matches, establishing himself as a key wicket-taker. He will join LSG at his existing salary of Rs 13.50 crore.
Context of the Trade
This trade was anticipated due to reports suggesting a potential exchange between the two franchises after the IPL 2026 season. Pant, who was acquired for a record Rs 27 crore, has struggled to meet expectations, scoring only three fifty-plus innings in his last 28 attempts, including one century and two half-centuries.
Performance Overview
In IPL 2025, Pant scored 269 runs with an average of 24.45 and a strike rate of 133.16. His performance in IPL 2026 showed little improvement, with 312 runs at an average of 28.36 and a strike rate of 138.05. Following the season, he also resigned from his captaincy.