One of the biggest player trades in IPL history has been completed. Rishabh Pant will return to Delhi Capitals (DC), while Kuldeep Yadav will move to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the next season.
Pant spent nine seasons with Delhi Capitals from 2016 to 2024. During that period, he played 111 matches, the most by any player for the franchise. He was also one of the team’s most important players and captained the side in 43 matches between 2021 and 2024.
At the IPL 2025 Player Auction, Pant was bought by LSG for a record INR 27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. Following the trade, he will return to Delhi Capitals on a revised contract worth INR 15 crore.
Kuldeep Yadav, meanwhile, will begin a new chapter with Lucknow Super Giants. The left-arm wrist spinner enjoyed a successful five-year spell with Delhi Capitals after joining the franchise in 2022. During his time with DC, he picked up 72 wickets in 65 matches and became one of the league’s leading wicket-takers.
The Indian spinner will join LSG at his existing salary of INR 13.50 crore.
Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav struggled in IPL 2026
Both players had disappointing IPL 2026 campaigns.
Pant scored 312 runs during the season. He averaged 28.36 and had a strike rate of 138.05. His performances were below expectations. LSG also finished at the bottom of the points table. The poor season reportedly played a role in the decision to complete the trade soon after the tournament ended.
Kuldeep also endured a difficult campaign. He took only 10 wickets in 12 matches. His economy rate of 10.29 was the highest of his IPL career since making his debut for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2016.
The move to Lucknow could benefit Kuldeep. LSG play their home matches at the Ekana International Stadium, a venue known for its slower pitches. Those conditions may suit his spin bowling better than the batting-friendly Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
Both franchises will now hope that the change of environment helps the two Indian stars rediscover their best form in the upcoming IPL season.
