In a surprising turn of events, star Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, the most capped player and leading run-scorer for Delhi Capitals in IPL history, might be leaving the franchise ahead of the mega auction next year. According to a report by Dainik Jagran on Saturday (July 20), the Delhi-based franchise is considering not retaining Pant, who led the side in IPL 2024.

Delhi Capitals’ management is reportedly unhappy with Pant’s performance as captain. While there are discussions about potentially trading the wicketkeeper-batter, former Indian captain and DC’s Director of Cricket, Sourav Ganguly, favors retaining Pant as the team’s captain.

If Delhi decides to release Pant, the 26-year-old, who played as the No. 3 batter for India in all eight matches of the T20 World Cup 2024, could join the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). An official from CSK hinted that the franchise is looking for a top Indian wicketkeeper as a potential replacement for MS Dhoni, who may retire before the 2025 IPL season. Dhoni, 43, is the most capped player in IPL history and is likely to not feature in the next edition of the tournament.

In another development, KL Rahul might end his three-year association with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Rahul faced criticism from LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka after the team’s loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024, an incident that was caught on camera. Having joined LSG for ₹17 crore ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, Rahul may be considering a return to his home state, joining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) once again. Rahul previously played for RCB in 2013 and 2016 and has often expressed his desire to represent his state team.

In the 2024 IPL edition, RCB, led by Faf du Plessis, qualified for the playoffs. However, there are speculations that the franchise is looking to appoint an Indian captain. If RCB succeeds in acquiring Rahul, the seasoned cricketer, who has led India in all three formats, could be seen taking charge in IPL 2025.