With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction on the horizon, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are keeping a close watch on Rishabh Pant, who is expected to make a splash as he enters the auction pool as per TOI. As the deadline for IPL teams to submit their retention lists approaches, speculation is rife that Pant will part ways with Delhi Capitals (DC), opening up opportunities for other franchises to swoop in.
Rishabh Pant exit from Delhi Capitals imminent?
Rishabh Pant has been a central figure for the Delhi Capitals since his debut in 2016. However, it is now highly likely that the 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter will enter the IPL 2025 auction, as his desire to captain the franchise has not been met with enthusiasm by the current DC management.
Multiple discussions between Pant and DC owners indicate that, barring a sudden change of heart, Pant will seek new pastures in the upcoming IPL cycle.
Pant’s departure from DC is expected to create significant demand for his services in the auction, particularly from teams seeking both a capable wicketkeeper and a potential captain. The IPL auction, set to take place in late November, could see a bidding war for the left-hander.
RCB in hot pursuit of Rishabh Pant
Among the franchises eyeing Rishabh Pant is Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who are in need of a wicketkeeper following Dinesh Karthik’s retirement. Pant, with his explosive batting and leadership potential, fits the bill perfectly for RCB’s middle-order and could also be a strong candidate for captaincy.
RCB’s interest in Pant comes amid speculation that KL Rahul, another prominent name, is also set to enter the auction pool. While this increases the options for the RCB management, Pant remains a prime target for the team as they look to strengthen their squad for the next IPL cycle.
Other franchises keen on DC captain
RCB aren’t the only team looking to secure Pant’s services. The Lucknow Super Giants, who recently parted ways with Rahul, and the Punjab Kings are also likely to enter the fray. Punjab, now led by Ricky Ponting, shares a strong bond with Pant from their time together at Delhi Capitals, making the Kings a serious contender for his signature.
Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) could also see changes in their squad, with reports suggesting that Shreyas Iyer may not be retained. This year’s mega-auction is expected to feature several high-profile Indian stars, further intensifying the competition for top talent.
Retention strategies and IPL Auction dynamics
With the IPL 2025 auction fast approaching, franchises are finalising their retention strategies. Mumbai Indians, with their star-studded roster, are expected to retain four to five key players, making them one of the few teams to go heavy on retentions. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have also solidified their retention list, which includes Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins, and Abhishek Sharma.
As more top players enter the auction pool, the use of the Right to Match (RTM) card will become crucial, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the auction. The revised RTM rule could see teams competing aggressively to reclaim their former stars, making this auction one of the most anticipated in recent years.
What’s ahead?
As Rishabh Pant prepares to enter the IPL 2025 auction, teams like RCB, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants are gearing up for a potential bidding war. Pant’s departure from Delhi Capitals could mark a turning point in his IPL career, with multiple franchises eager to bring him into their fold. With a packed auction pool featuring some of India’s top cricketing talents, the upcoming IPL auction promises to be a game-changer for many teams.
