Rishabh Pant is returning to the Delhi Capitals (DC) for a revised fee of INR 15 crore, while spinner Kuldeep Yadav moves to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for INR 13.5 crore, following a high-profile trade agreement finalized by the Indian Premier League. The move marks a significant shift in roster composition for both franchises ahead of the upcoming season.
The official announcement confirmed that the trade involves a direct swap of player services between the two clubs. For Pant, the return to Delhi follows a high-priced stint with Lucknow, where he was originally purchased for INR 27 crore during the 2025 auction. This trade sees his salary adjusted downward as he rejoins the franchise where he spent the first nine seasons of his career.
Announcement Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav complete high-profile trade between @DelhiCapitals and @LucknowIPL. Rishabh Pant all set to rejoin #DC at INR 15 Crore whereas Kuldeep Yadav will join #LSG at INR 13.5 Crore. More Details https://t.co/64HeOX143I… pic.twitter.com/iTEvj7fgNo
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) June 23, 2026
A Return to Familiar Territory for Pant
Rishabh Pant’s tenure with the Delhi franchise remains one of the most storied in the team’s history. Between 2016 and 2024, Pant made 111 appearances for the side, a record for the franchise. His leadership role was equally prominent, as he served as captain for 43 matches across four seasons from 2021 to 2024. This homecoming is viewed as an attempt by the team to stabilize their leadership structure after a period of transition.
The financial adjustment in this trade is notable. While Pant commanded a record-breaking INR 27 crore fee at the 2025 auction, his move to Delhi at INR 15 crore reflects a recalibration of his market value following a challenging 2026 campaign. His performance during his time with Lucknow faced scrutiny, as the franchise struggled to maintain consistency, finishing eighth in 2025 and eleventh in the 2026 season.
Kuldeep Yadav’s New Role at Lucknow
Kuldeep Yadav transitions to the Lucknow Super Giants after a successful five-season run with Delhi. During his tenure in the capital, the left-arm wrist spinner became a cornerstone of the bowling attack, claiming 72 wickets in 65 matches. His move to Lucknow at a valuation of INR 13.5 crore represents a tactical acquisition for the Super Giants, who are seeking to bolster their spin-bowling options.
For Lucknow, the arrival of a proven wicket-taker like Kuldeep is a strategic response to recent team struggles. With the franchise having failed to qualify for the playoffs in the most recent cycle, management is clearly prioritizing established talent to shore up the middle overs. Kuldeep’s ability to provide breakthroughs has been a consistent feature of his IPL career, and he is expected to play a central role in Lucknow’s tactical planning for the next season.
What Happens Next for Both Franchises
The primary question facing the Lucknow Super Giants is the appointment of a new captain. Rishabh Pant, who led the team during his stint there, stepped down from the role following the conclusion of the 2026 season. With the leadership void now open, the franchise will need to determine whether to promote from within or look to the upcoming auction pool for a long-term successor.
Delhi, meanwhile, faces the task of integrating a familiar leader back into a squad that has undergone significant changes in the last two years. While the franchise is currently seeking a new leader, the return of a player with Pant’s deep institutional knowledge of the club offers a clear path forward. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as both teams finalize their remaining squad spots ahead of the next cycle of the tournament. Official updates regarding team rosters and leadership appointments will be released through the league’s official channels in the coming months.