One of the biggest transfer stories ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League season has officially taken shape, with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant returning to Delhi Capitals after completing a trade from Lucknow Super Giants.
Pant previously spent several successful seasons with Delhi Capitals, where he developed into one of the franchise’s most influential players and also captained the side. His return reunites him with the team where he established himself as one of India’s premier wicketkeeper-batters.
As part of the trade agreement, left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav will move from Delhi Capitals to Lucknow Super Giants. The exchange gives both franchises an opportunity to reshape their squads ahead of the upcoming IPL season.
Pant joined Lucknow Super Giants before the 2025 season in a record-breaking auction deal and was appointed captain. However, after two challenging seasons for both the player and the franchise, Lucknow opted for a fresh direction while Pant now begins a new chapter with Delhi Capitals.
For Delhi Capitals, bringing Pant back adds an experienced wicketkeeper, an explosive middle-order batter, and a proven leader. His familiarity with the franchise could help strengthen the team’s plans for the new campaign.
Lucknow Super Giants, meanwhile, gain one of India’s leading spin bowlers in Kuldeep Yadav, whose experience and wicket-taking ability could become an important part of their rebuilding process.
The trade is expected to be one of the headline moves before IPL 2027 and has generated significant discussion among cricket fans. Attention will now turn to how both players perform after switching franchises and whether the move benefits both teams in the long term.
Trade Summary
Player
From
To
Rishabh Pant
Lucknow Super Giants
Delhi Capitals
Kuldeep Yadav
Delhi Capitals
Lucknow Super Giants
Key Highlights
Rishabh Pant returns to Delhi Capitals.
Kuldeep Yadav joins Lucknow Super Giants.
Pant previously spent nine IPL seasons with Delhi Capitals and captained the franchise.
The trade is among the biggest moves ahead of the IPL 2027 season.
