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In a surprising twist for Delhi Capitals (DC) fans, reports indicate that the franchise is planning to part ways with their longtime player Rishabh Pant ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. According to Times of India, DC has chosen to retain key players Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and emerging finisher Tristan Stubbs. With the deadline for retention lists approaching, this reshuffling could redefine DC’s game strategy for the next season.
No Rishabh Pant as DC finalise their retained players.
Axar Patel
Kuldeep Yadav
StubbsAbhishek Porel (uncapped)
— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) October 30, 2024
Delhi Capitals’ Retention Decisions
DC has reportedly solidified three major retentions for IPL 2025. Axar Patel, known for his all-round skills, is not only retained but is also rumored to be the frontrunner for captaincy. Alongside him, Kuldeep Yadav, a skilled spinner, will continue with DC, providing stability to their bowling lineup. South African finisher Tristan Stubbs, who made an impact in IPL 2024, is also expected to stay, alongside promising uncapped player Abhishek Porel, who served as DC’s “impact player.”
The End of an Era with Rishabh Pant?
Rishabh Pant has been synonymous with DC’s batting lineup for most of his IPL career. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman missed IPL 2023 due to a car accident in December 2022, but his comeback in 2024 showed his resilience. With over 3,284 runs across 111 matches, Pant has been one of the most consistent batsmen and a fan favorite.
While DC initially retained Pant for multiple seasons, even promoting him to captain in 2021, the upcoming auction marks a shift in DC’s strategy. This potential release opens up the possibility for other teams to vie for Pant, with early reports hinting that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) may be prepared to make a strong bid for him in the 2025 auction.
What’s Next for Rishabh Pant?
With the IPL 2025 auction around the corner, all eyes will be on Pant’s future. As one of the league’s top-performing batsmen and a skilled captain, Pant is sure to attract interest from multiple franchises. Fans and franchises alike eagerly await to see where Pant lands and how his move might reshape the league’s dynamics.