Moves in one of the biggest transfer ipl 2027, Delhi Capitals (DC) And Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have completed a high-profile player swap Rishabh Pant And -Kuldeep Yadav. Indian Premier League The trade was confirmed through an official media advisory, with Pant returning to Delhi Capitals for Rs 15 crore, while Kuldeep joined Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 13.5 crore.
The deal, finalized less than a month after the conclusion of IPL 2026, sees Pant reuniting with the franchise where he built his reputation as one of India’s most exciting cricketers. For LSG, the acquisition of Kuldeep strengthens their spin department as they look to bounce back from a disappointing campaign.
Rishabh Pant returns home after 2 years of challenge in Lucknow
Pant’s return to Delhi Capitals marks the beginning of a new chapter with a team that played a major role in his rise to stardom. The wicketkeeper-batsman represented the franchise from 2016 to 2024 and became one of its most influential players during that period.
In nine seasons, Pant has featured in 111 matches for Delhi Capitals, the most by any player in the history of the franchise. He was also given leadership responsibilities, captaining the team in 43 matches between 2021 and 2024. His aggressive batting style and fearless approach made him a fan favorite in the capital.
In 2025, Pant made headlines when Lucknow Supergiants acquired his services for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore in the mega auction. Expectations were high, but his tenure with the franchise did not live up to expectations.
The left-handed batsman struggled to perform consistently over the next two seasons, scoring 269 runs in IPL 2025 and 312 runs in IPL 2026. Although there were flashes of talent, he was unable to replicate the impact he made during his peak years with Delhi.
The team’s fortunes were also disappointing under his captaincy. LSG finished seventh in 2025 and slipped to 10th in 2026, leading to speculation about changes in the franchise.
Kuldeep Yadav has got a new opportunity due to the strengthening of LSG’s bowling unit.
While Pant is back in familiar surroundings, Kuldeep will be hoping that the change of environment will help revive his IPL fortunes. The left-arm wrist spinner enjoyed a successful spell with Delhi Capitals after joining the franchise in 2022. During his time with DC, he emerged as one of the team’s most reliable bowlers, taking 72 wickets in 65 matches while maintaining an economy rate of 8.38.
Recognizing his value, Delhi retained Kuldeep for Rs 13.25 crore ahead of the 2025 mega auction. However, the 2026 season proved to be difficult for the spinner. He managed to take only 10 wickets and gave away runs at an economy rate of 10.30 per over, the highest in his decade-long IPL career.
Despite the dip in form, Kuldeep remains one of India’s premier white-ball spinners, and LSG will be optimistic that he can rediscover his best form in the new surroundings.
