November 19, 2024: Rishabh Pant’s comments on his exclusion from Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the IPL 2025 mega-auction have shed light on his stance, making it clear that his exit was not driven by money.
In a recent post responding to a video where Sunil Gavaskar suggested there might have been some disagreement between Pant and the franchise, Pant emphasized that financial factors were not behind the decision. His statement on X (formerly Twitter) firmly put to rest any speculation about contractual disputes centered on his remuneration, asserting, “My retention wasn’t about the money for sure.”
Pant has been a key figure for DC over the years, having scored 3,284 runs in 111 IPL matches, making him the franchise’s leading run-scorer. His career strike rate of 148.93, coupled with a century and 17 fifties, underscores his value to the team. Under his captaincy, DC reached the playoffs in 2021, but they faltered in subsequent seasons, failing to make the playoffs in both 2022 and 2024.
During the last IPL season, despite Pant’s strong personal performance — 446 runs in 13 matches at an average of over 40 and a strike rate above 155 — DC narrowly missed out on the playoffs due to a points tie (seven wins and seven losses). However, Pant remained DC’s top run-scorer, which only made the team’s failure to reach the playoffs more poignant.
Sunil Gavaskar had speculated on Star Sports that there might have been a difference of opinion over retention-related discussions between Pant and DC, particularly about expected fees, leading to the wicketkeeper-batter’s exclusion. Gavaskar suggested that DC would likely want Pant back, especially given the need for a captain, as the franchise may face difficulties finding a replacement leader if Pant is not in their squad.
Pant’s remarks and the ongoing speculation about his future reflect the complexities of IPL dynamics, especially with player retention and the mega-auction approaching. His next step will certainly be one of great interest to both DC fans and IPL watchers alike.
