Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are working on a high-profile trade that could see Rishabh Pant return to his former franchise, while spinner Kuldeep Yadav heads in the opposite direction.
According to reports, discussions between the two teams are already underway, with DC having initiated the trade process. If completed, the move would bring Pant back to the franchise where he began his IPL journey and spent several successful seasons before joining LSG ahead of IPL 2025.
One of the biggest talking points in the proposed deal is Pant’s salary. The wicketkeeper-batter has reportedly agreed to take a major pay cut to help make the trade possible. His salary is expected to fall from ₹27 crore, the record amount LSG paid for him, to around ₹15 crore. Kuldeep’s salary, meanwhile, is expected to remain unchanged at ₹13.25 crore.
The trade comes after a difficult two-year spell for Pant at Lucknow. Despite arriving as one of the league’s biggest stars, he struggled to produce consistent performances with the bat and also faced challenges as captain.
Across two seasons with LSG, Pant scored 581 runs in 28 matches. The team’s results also failed to improve, with Lucknow finishing at the bottom of the table in IPL 2026. Following the disappointing campaign, Pant stepped down as captain as the franchise began planning a major rebuild.
A return to Delhi could offer the 28-year-old a fresh start at a familiar franchise. However, reports suggest he is unlikely to take over the captaincy if the trade is completed, with DC expected to continue with their current leadership plans.
For Delhi, bringing Pant back would be a major statement. He remains one of the most popular players associated with the franchise and has a strong connection with the team’s fan base.
The biggest sacrifice for DC would be Kuldeep Yadav. The left-arm wrist spinner has been one of the franchise’s most reliable bowlers in recent seasons and has played a key role in their bowling attack. His departure would leave a significant gap, but DC appear willing to make that trade-off to secure Pant’s return.
If the deal goes through, it could become one of the most talked-about player trades in IPL history, involving two of India’s leading international cricketers and reshaping the plans of both franchises ahead of the next season.