Cricket

Rishabh Pant, the former captain of the Delhi Capitals, has refuted claims that his non-retention by the franchise was financially motivated. In response to a video featuring former India batter Sunil Gavaskar's comments on the IPL retentions, Pant clarified that money was not a factor in his departure."My retention wasn't about the money for sure that I can say," Pant tweeted.Gavaskar had speculated that Pant's non-retention may have stemmed from a disagreement over fees. However, Pant's response suggests that other factors were at play.The Delhi Capitals released Pant ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, which will be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on November 24 and 25. The franchise opted to retain Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw, and Anrich Nortje.Pant's release has sparked speculation about his future in the IPL. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented young players in the league, and his availability in the auction could attract interest from multiple franchises.The Delhi Capitals have not publicly commented on the reasons behind Pant's non-retention. However, it is believed that the franchise was looking to reduce its salary cap and rebuild its squad.Pant's departure from the Delhi Capitals marks the end of an era for the franchise. He was appointed captain in 2021 and led the team to the IPL final in 2022.It remains to be seen where Pant will play in the IPL 2025 season. However, his talent and experience make him a valuable asset for any franchise.

Shreyas Iyer's IPL Future: Gavaskar Predicts KKR or Delhi Capitals ReunionShreyas Iyer's release by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has sparked speculation about his future in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite leading KKR to the title in 2022, Iyer was released ahead of the 2023 season due to a back injury.Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has proposed an intriguing idea for Iyer's future in the IPL. Gavaskar believes that KKR will attempt to reacquire Iyer, similar to his earlier prediction regarding Rishabh Pant. However, he cautions that negotiations over the fee could lead to a disagreement.KKR's limited purse of Rs 51 crore and lack of a Right to Match (RTM) card put them in a challenging position ahead of the auction. "When KKR won last year (IPL 2024), Shreyas Iyer was the captain. As I said earlier for Rishabh Pant as well, at times, there could be a disagreement on the fees," Gavaskar said on Star Sports' show 'Game Plan'.Iyer has set his base price at Rs 2 crore. His performance last season was impressive, amassing 351 runs in 14 innings at an average of 39, with a strike rate of 146.86.Gavaskar suggests that Delhi Capitals will also be interested in Iyer, as they will need a new captain if Rishabh Pant is not part of the team. "Delhi will want him because they will also need to find a captain if Rishabh Pant isn't in their team. So I feel Delhi will definitely try to use the RTM card or bring Rishabh Pant back into their team at the auction," he said.Ultimately, Iyer's future in the IPL will depend on the strategies of KKR and Delhi Capitals at the auction. If KKR is willing to pay a premium for his services, he could return to the franchise that he led to glory. However, if Delhi Capitals sees him as a suitable replacement for Pant, they could make a strong bid for his services.

Delhi Capitals' Strategic Retention of Tristan Stubbs Lauded by Paul AdamsFormer South African spinner Paul Adams has hailed the Delhi Capitals' decision to retain Tristan Stubbs for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Amidst significant roster changes, including the release of former captain Rishabh Pant, Stubbs's retention underscores the franchise's belief in his abilities."It was a calculated move from Delhi Capitals," Adams told IANS. "Stubbs is one of the few young players who will be a long-term asset for the franchise. He has proven his credentials in all formats, including a classy innings against Bangladesh in Tests. Having a young, hard-hitting batter and a terrific fielder will always benefit the team."The 22-year-old Stubbs has impressed with his aggressive batting and efficient fielding in previous IPL seasons, scoring three half-centuries in 18 matches. Alongside Stubbs, Delhi Capitals have also retained Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and uncapped player Abishek Porel, aiming to solidify their core team."With Axar, Kuldeep, and Porel also in the retention list, DC has tried to retain their core strength," Adams added. "But with Rishabh gone, it will be interesting to see who will lead the team."Stubbs, who made his IPL debut in 2022, has scored 405 runs at an average of 36.82, including three fifties. Acquired for Rs 50 lakh in the 2024 IPL Auction, his performance showcases his potential as a long-term asset for the team.Adams also praised the emergence of young talent like Gerald Coetzee and credited the SA20 tournament for its positive impact on South African cricket, attributing part of its success to the involvement of IPL franchises."Coetzee has been around for a while and has always been able to contribute with the bat," Adams said. "His innings the other night was absolutely amazing. Coming in and taking the pressure off Stubbs immediately. Having a player like that down the order and the batting depth South Africa now has in T20 is important.""It allows batters to continue to keep going hard," Adams added. "And you've got to understand that the game's never finished. You've got to make sure you've got length in your batting and batters down the order that can clear the ropes. And we had to see what Gerald is capable of."

Munaf Patel, the former Indian pacer and 2011 ODI World Cup winner, has been appointed as the new bowling coach of the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. This marks Munaf's first major coaching role since his retirement from competitive cricket in 2018.Munaf, known for his ability to generate reverse swing and deliver accurate yorkers, represented India in 86 matches across all three formats from 2006 to 2011. He also played for several IPL franchises, including Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, and Gujarat Lions, winning the IPL title with Mumbai in 2013.Munaf replaces former Australia all-rounder James Hopes, who parted ways with DC in July 2024. The franchise has undergone a significant overhaul in its coaching staff, with Hemang Badani as head coach and Venugopal Rao as director of cricket.As part of their preparations for the upcoming IPL cycle, DC has retained key players such as Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, and Abishek Porel. They will enter the auction on November 24 and 25 with the third-highest purse of INR 73 crore, aiming to strengthen their squad and improve their performance after failing to reach the playoffs in the last three IPL seasons.Munaf's appointment is expected to bolster DC's bowling attack, which has struggled for consistency in recent years. His experience and expertise in the art of fast bowling will be invaluable to the team's young bowlers.

Shreyas Iyer, the former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain, has opted to enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, setting the stage for a bidding war for his services. Iyer's decision to leave KKR, where he led the team to the IPL title in 2024, has sparked speculation about his potential destination.According to reports, Iyer's former franchise, Delhi Capitals (DC), is keen on bringing him back. DC, who released Rishabh Pant ahead of the auction, is reportedly offering Iyer the captaincy role. With a purse of Rs 73 crore, DC has the financial muscle to make a significant bid for Iyer.Iyer's departure from KKR was amicable, according to CEO Venky Mysore. "There won't be too many teams that would want Iyer the T20 batter, but just to ensure DC spends a bomb on a player, they might engage in a bidding war for Iyer," said an IPL franchise official.Meanwhile, other teams are also eyeing potential acquisitions. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is reportedly considering KL Rahul, who was released by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Rahul could be a potential captaincy option for RCB.Punjab Kings is expected to retain Arshdeep Singh via the Right to Match (RTM) card if his value stays below Rs 20 crore. LSG is reportedly interested in wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan as a replacement for Rahul.The IPL auction is set to be a major event, with several high-profile players available. Iyer's availability is likely to be one of the most sought-after acquisitions, as teams look to bolster their squads for the upcoming season.

Rishabh Pant's departure from Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction has shed light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that led to his release. Pant's nine-year association with the franchise ended abruptly, with Axar Patel being retained as the first choice.According to a report by PTI, Pant's dissatisfaction stemmed from the decisions made by co-owners GMR Group, who will manage the franchise for the next two years. The appointment of Hemang Badani as head coach and Venugopal Rao as Director of Cricket reportedly left Pant unhappy.Furthermore, Pant was reportedly displeased with the GMR Group's decision to curb his powers. Earlier reports suggested that DC was considering stripping Pant of the captaincy and handing it to Axar Patel.Pant's release is a significant development, given his status as one of the most sought-after players in the IPL. He has been a key member of the Indian team, winning the T20 World Cup 2024 as India's first-choice wicket-keeper batter.The changes at DC reflect the franchise's desire for a fresh start. Ricky Ponting, who had been the head coach for seven years, was replaced by Badani. Sourav Ganguly, the former Director of Cricket, was also replaced by Rao.Pant's departure is a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the IPL. Franchises are constantly looking to optimize their rosters, and even established players can find themselves on the move. Pant's release is a testament to the competitive nature of the league and the importance of player satisfaction.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has hinted at a potential move for wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Raina revealed that Pant met with CSK legend MS Dhoni in Delhi, sparking speculation about a possible transfer.The Indian Premier League (IPL) player retention lists were announced on Wednesday, with Dhoni retained by CSK as an uncapped player for Rs 4 crore. Pant, on the other hand, was released by the Delhi Capitals (DC) after eight seasons with the franchise.Speaking to JioCinema, Raina said, "I met MS Dhoni in Delhi, Pant was also there. I think something big is to happen. Someone will be wearing a yellow jersey soon."This statement comes amidst reports that Pant is set to join CSK. The move would not be surprising, as Dhoni is nearing the end of his career and Pant could become the franchise's next star wicketkeeper-batter or even captain.In 111 matches for DC, Pant scored 3,284 runs at an average of 148.93, with a century and 17 fifties. He is the franchise's leading run-getter. Under his captaincy, DC reached the playoffs in 2021 but failed to progress beyond the league stages in 2022 and 2023.In the last season, Pant scored 446 runs in 13 matches for DC, averaging over 40 and striking at over 155. He scored three half-centuries and had a best score of 88*. While he was the franchise's top run-getter, DC missed out on the playoffs, finishing sixth with seven wins and seven losses.DC have retained all-rounder Axar Patel, spinner Kuldeep Yadav, batters Tristan Stubbs, and Abishek Porel ahead of this year's mega auction.

Rishabh Pant, India's premier wicketkeeper-batter, is poised to enter the IPL 2025 auction, potentially sparking a bidding war among multiple franchises. According to reports, Pant will not be retained by his current team, Delhi Capitals, ahead of the October 31 deadline.Pant's departure from DC stems from concerns over his leadership abilities in the T20 format. Despite his consistent performances for India and a successful return to the IPL after a serious accident, the DC management reportedly believes he lacks the necessary qualities to lead the team."Pant wanted captaincy and involvement in appointing coaches and support staff, but many in the DC setup are not convinced about his T20 game," a source told the Times of India. "They didn't want to let him go, but they didn't see him leading the side."With Pant's exit, DC is likely to explore captaincy options in the mega auction. Shreyas Iyer, who previously led the team to success, is a potential target. Axar Patel is another option, but the franchise may prefer to seek external candidates.Former India player Aakash Chopra predicts a fierce bidding war for Pant's services. "If Pant enters the auction, he will break the bank," Chopra said. "RCB, Punjab, Delhi, KKR, CSK, Mumbai, and Gujarat all need a keeper-batter, and Pant fits the bill perfectly."Pant's availability in the auction could significantly impact the dynamics of the IPL. His all-round abilities and star power make him a highly sought-after player. The bidding war for his services is expected to reach unprecedented heights, with multiple franchises vying for his signature.

Rishabh Pant's tenure with the Delhi Capitals (DC) has come to an end, as the franchise has opted not to retain him ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. This decision marks a significant shift for both Pant and DC, who have been closely associated since 2016.Sources close to the development have revealed that Pant's desire for captaincy and involvement in team management played a role in the franchise's decision. While DC was open to retaining Pant, they were not convinced about his leadership abilities in the T20 format."Rishabh Pant wanted captaincy and wanted to be involved with regards to the appointment of coaches and support staff, but plenty in the DC set-up are not convinced about his T20 game," said a source.With Pant's departure, DC faces the challenge of finding a new captain. Axar Patel, who has been retained by the franchise, is a potential candidate. However, sources suggest that DC may explore options at the mega-auction, with Shreyas Iyer being a strong possibility."Axar Patel is there as an option, but there is a strong possibility of DC exploring options at the mega auction. Shreyas Iyer will definitely be on their radar as he enjoyed a lot of success in the DC set-up and understands the set-up well," added the source.DC has retained four players for the upcoming season: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristian Stubbs, and Abhishek Porel. They have also kept the option of Right To Match (RTM) card open for the mega auction.Pant's departure from DC marks the end of an era for the franchise. He joined the team as a young player in 2016 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming their captain in 2021. His aggressive batting and fearless leadership style made him a fan favorite.However, Pant's recent form in the T20 format has been inconsistent, and his captaincy has come under scrutiny. DC's decision to part ways with him is a reflection of their desire to rebuild and find a new leader who can guide them to success in the years to come.