A major player swap has shaken up the Indian Premier League ahead of the new season. Former Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant is returning to Delhi Capitals (DC), while star spinner Kuldeep Yadav will move to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in one of the biggest trades in IPL history.
The high-profile exchange sees two of India’s leading cricketers switching franchises as both teams look to strengthen their squads.
Rishabh Pant Returns Home to Delhi Capitals
Rishabh Pant is heading back to the franchise where he built his IPL career. The wicketkeeper-batter represented Delhi Capitals from 2016 to 2024, becoming one of the team’s biggest stars.
During his first spell with DC, Pant played 111 matches, the highest by any player for the franchise. Moreover, he captained the side in 43 matches between 2021 and 2024, leading the team through four seasons.
His return is expected to boost Delhi’s batting lineup and leadership group ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Pant’s Record IPL Auction Fee Revised
At the TATA IPL 2025 Player Auction, Lucknow Super Giants signed Pant for a record-breaking ₹27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history.
However, following the trade, Pant will rejoin Delhi Capitals on a revised contract worth ₹15 crore.
The move marks a quick return to familiar surroundings after spending just one season with Lucknow.
Kuldeep Yadav Begins New Journey with LSG
As part of the trade, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav will join Lucknow Super Giants after an impressive stint with Delhi Capitals.
Kuldeep became a key member of the DC bowling attack after joining the franchise in 2022. During his five seasons with Delhi, he picked up 72 wickets in 65 matches, establishing himself as one of the league’s most consistent wicket-takers.
His arrival gives Lucknow a proven match-winner in the spin department.
Kuldeep Retains Existing Contract
Unlike Pant, Kuldeep Yadav will join Lucknow Super Giants on his existing contract.
The Indian spinner will continue with a salary of ₹13.50 crore, making him one of the franchise’s highest-paid bowlers.
Additionally, his experience in both international cricket and the IPL is expected to strengthen LSG’s bowling unit.
One of the Biggest Trades in IPL History
The Pant-Kuldeep swap is among the most significant player trades the IPL has witnessed in recent years.
Delhi Capitals regain one of the most iconic players in their history, while Lucknow Super Giants add one of India’s premier white-ball spinners to their squad.
With both players expected to play key roles for their new teams, the trade has already become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the upcoming IPL season.