Rishabh Pant’s release from the Delhi Capitals roster on October 31 shocked fans and franchises alike, especially as the star wicketkeeper-batsman made a remarkable return to cricket after a 16-month recovery from a serious accident. Pant, who impressed last IPL season with 446 runs at a blistering strike rate of 155.50, is now expected to be a hot commodity in the 2025 IPL mega auction. However, former cricketer Aakash Chopra believes the Delhi Capitals won’t be part of the bidding battle.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra speculated that Delhi Capitals are likely to use their remaining ‘Right to Match’ (RTM) cards on other players, such as Jake Fraser-McGurk, instead of Pant.
I don’t think they’ll pursue Rishabh Pant past a certain budget. They might show initial interest but will bow out when the price goes beyond their means,
Chopra remarked, hinting that Delhi’s budget constraints and strategic choices may rule out Pant’s return.
Reports suggest that Delhi Capitals may be eyeing a leadership shift, with Axar Patel as a potential captain, a move that could signal a shift away from Pant. Additionally, Chopra speculated that ego could be a factor, as Delhi might choose not to “lift the paddle at all” if the bidding escalates.
They could easily step back and say they don’t need him,
he added.
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IPL Auction Heads to Riyadh for 2025
The much-anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction is expected to take place on November 24 and 25 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With Pant back in the pool, franchises are gearing up for what promises to be a heated bidding war, but it appears Delhi Capitals may choose to look elsewhere as they refine their roster for the upcoming season.