Rishabh Pant's professional cricketing future is currently shrouded in uncertainty following the Delhi Capitals' decision to part ways with the star wicketkeeper-batter. This move has raised eyebrows across the cricketing world, particularly with the highly anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction just around the corner. Pant, who had been with the franchise since 2016, was not retained, leaving many to speculate about his fate and potential new beginnings.
After suffering severe injuries from his car accident last December, Pant defied the odds and made a triumphant return to cricket during the IPL 2024 season. Leading the Delhi Capitals, he scored 446 runs, averaging 40 with a strike rate of 155, which contributed not only to his franchise but also reignited excitement for his international career. His comeback was instrumental for India, who clinched the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, with Pant playing pivotal roles both with the bat and behind the stumps.
Despite his solid performance post-recovery, which included impressive showings in tests against teams such as Bangladesh and New Zealand, the Delhi Capitals' decision to exclude Pant from their retention list has stirred questions. Sources have indicated the split was due to strained relations between Pant and one of the franchise's co-owners, with attempts to hold onto him using the Right-To-Match (RTM) card being ruled out.
“Delhi Capitals will not be using the RTM card on Rishabh Pant in the mega auction due to his relationship with one of the co-owners not being in the best shape,” reported Khel Now. Reports suggest the lack of agreement on key terms between Pant and the franchise was the crux of the matter, leading to mutual parting without the anticipated retention.
Pant himself acknowledged the situation, taking to social media to clarify, “My retention wasn’t about the money for sure.” It is clear he is not solely focused on financial aspects, demonstrating his commitment to the sport and the significance of his career going forward. The Delhi Capitals will now turn their attention to strengthening their roster, with speculation arising about targeting former player Shreyas Iyer during the upcoming auction.
The IPL 2025 mega auction, taking place on November 24-25, is set to be particularly thrilling as franchises vie for top talent, including Rishabh Pant, who is believed to be valued between Rs 25-28 crore. Former cricketer Robin Uthappa has voiced his predictions about Pant's worth at the auction, emphasizing his status as one of the marquee players. This is echoed by Aakash Chopra, who believes Pant could become the most expensive player in IPL history.
Uthappa mentioned, “I feel Rishabh Pant will go at around 25-28 crores. He will definitely get the big bucks and become the highest-paid player in this auction.” There seems to be significant interest from franchises like Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore, both of which may look to secure Pant for their leadership and wicketkeeping needs. With potential bidding wars on the horizon, the dynamics of the auction could shift dramatically based on teams' strategies.
“If there is a good equation between Pant and Punjab Kings, then they will go hard for him,” predicted Chopra. The urgency to secure young talent and proven leaders has never been more apparent as teams navigate their approaches for the mega auction.
On the flip side, experts have pointed out the apparent need for the Delhi Capitals to find another captain to replace Pant. Sunil Gavaskar remarked, “Delhi would certainly want Rishabh Pant back in their squad. If Rishabh Pant is not in their squad, then they have to look for a new captain as well.” His input reflects the general sentiment among analysts and fans alike—a desire to see Pant return to his leadership role.
The IPL 2025 auction marks not just the recruitment of players but the continuation of team legacies. Rishabh Pant, with his track record, charisma, and fan following, undoubtedly stands out as one of the most significant players to watch. The next few weeks lead up to what could be transformative paths for both the player and the franchise he's associated with. The world of cricket watches with bated breath for the upcoming auction and the potential reunion of Pant with his former franchise or his transition to a new team.
Fans and analysts alike will be tuned to the auction, eager to see how Pant's future unfurls. His remarkable bounce back from adversity and tremendous capabilities as both player and potential leader ensures he remains the focal point of the IPL storylines, leading up to the monumental event.
