New Delhi: Rishabh Pant is reportedly set to take a significant pay cut as part of a potential high-profile trade deal ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League season. The star wicketkeeper-batter, who became the costliest player in IPL history with a Rs 27 crore deal from Lucknow Super Giants in 2025, is now expected to return to Delhi Capitals for a reduced fee of around Rs 15 crore.
Trade talks signal major reshuffle
According to multiple reports, Delhi Capitals have initiated a trade arrangement with Lucknow Super Giants that could see Pant make a return to his former franchise. Pant had earlier spent nine seasons with Delhi, where he also served as captain, before being released ahead of the 2025 IPL auction.
The proposed trade is expected to involve spinner Kuldeep Yadav moving in the opposite direction to Lucknow. The deal, if finalised, would represent a homecoming for both players, given their domestic cricket roots in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh respectively.
The most striking aspect of the reported agreement is Pant’s willingness to accept a substantial pay cut. From his record-breaking Rs 27 crore contract, the revised deal is expected to bring his salary down by approximately Rs 12 crore, settling near Rs 15 crore. Kuldeep Yadav, however, is likely to retain his current salary of Rs 13.25 crore with Lucknow.
Performance under scrutiny
Pant’s potential exit from Lucknow Super Giants comes after two underwhelming seasons under his leadership. The franchise finished seventh in the 2025 season and slipped further to tenth place in 2026, raising concerns about team performance and direction.
Despite his individual credentials and leadership experience, the team’s lack of success appears to have prompted a rethink in strategy. A return to Delhi Capitals could offer Pant a familiar environment to rediscover his best form and leadership rhythm.
Yuvraj Singh set for coaching role
In a parallel development, former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh is expected to join Delhi Capitals as batting coach for the 2027 season. This will mark his first coaching stint in the IPL, adding significant experience and pedigree to the franchise’s support staff.
Yuvraj, a key figure in India’s triumphs in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, has recently mentored several players, including India captain Shubman Gill and T20 star Abhishek Sharma. Notably, Pant himself has sought Yuvraj’s guidance during challenging phases in his career.
Overhaul in Delhi Capitals management
The developments are part of a broader restructuring within Delhi Capitals. Reports suggest that co-owner JSW will take over operational control for the 2027–28 seasons, leading to a complete overhaul of the coaching staff.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly is expected to assume the role of Director of Cricket. Meanwhile, the current support staff, including Venugopal Rao, Hemang Badani, and Munaf Patel, are likely to make way for a new setup.
This restructuring signals Delhi Capitals’ intent to rebuild and strengthen their squad and management framework ahead of the upcoming IPL cycles.
Strategic implications for IPL teams
If the trade goes through, it could have significant implications for both franchises. Delhi Capitals would regain an experienced leader and explosive batter, albeit at a more manageable cost. Lucknow Super Giants, on the other hand, would bolster their bowling attack with a proven spinner in Kuldeep Yadav.
The financial adjustments also highlight the evolving dynamics of IPL contracts, where teams are increasingly balancing star power with budget constraints and team composition needs.
Conclusion
Rishabh Pant’s reported pay cut and potential return to Delhi Capitals underline a major shift in IPL trade dynamics. While the move could rejuvenate both the player and the franchise, it also reflects the pragmatic approach teams are adopting in squad building. As the 2027 season approaches, all eyes will be on whether this high-profile trade materialises and how it reshapes the competitive landscape of the league.