Rishabh Pant Set for Big Pay Day in IPL Auction Amid Delhi Capitals Speculation
India opener Aakash Chopra has weighed in on the situation, analyzing Pant's IPL statistics and their implications for his future. Despite doubts about Pant's performance—having had only one standout season in the IPL and relatively modest T20 numbers—Chopra is confident that the wicketkeeper will attract significant bids if he goes to auction.
As the IPL player retention deadline approaches, speculation is growing that Indian superstar Rishabh Pant may part ways with the Delhi Capitals. After spending 11 seasons with the franchise, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter is considering entering the auction for the next season. Although there is no official confirmation, some reports indicate that the Capitals are still in discussions with Pant, and if he chooses to remain, he would command a salary of INR 18 crore.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra has weighed in on the situation, analyzing Pant's IPL statistics and their implications for his future. Despite doubts about Pant's performance—having had only one standout season in the IPL and relatively modest T20 numbers—Chopra is confident that the wicketkeeper will attract significant bids if he goes to auction. “It’s being heard that Rishabh Pant might be available at the auction. Although the jury is out, many say his numbers in T20s are not that good... I can give you in writing that the bank would be broken if his name comes in the auction,” Chopra stated on his YouTube channel.
Chopra further explored the potential landing spots for Pant, highlighting several franchises that could make aggressive bids for his services. Teams such as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are likely to pursue him fervently. “RCB need a keeper, a batter, and maybe a captain. Punjab would need him as they won’t have anyone. Delhi would need him back, the RTM card would be available. KKR also need him. What about CSK? They would also need him. If Ishan Kishan is left out, Mumbai would also need him,” Chopra elaborated.
Chopra also made bold predictions about the financial stakes in the auction, suggesting that the bidding could escalate to between INR 25-30 crore, given the widespread demand for Pant’s skills. “Why would LSG not be interested even if they retain Nicholas Pooran? Everyone apart from Rajasthan would need him. Gujarat will also need him. They don't have a keeper. So overall, Rishabh Pant will get a lot of money,” he remarked.
With Pant’s future uncertain and multiple franchises vying for a top-tier wicketkeeper, the upcoming IPL auction promises to be highly competitive, particularly for the talented player. As teams look to bolster their rosters, Pant's potential availability could lead to a significant bidding war, ultimately redefining his career in the league.
