Social media is abuzz with the IPL 2025 Retention deadline set for October 31. Cricket fans and analysts are keen to see which players will be retained by each franchise. Delhi Capitals (DC), which have not performed well in the last two seasons, will look to have a solid core that could finally land them the title. But at the heart of the discussion is Rishabh Pant, especially after an ownership change. There are speculations that DC won’t retain Rishabh. However, veteran Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh urged Delhi Capitals to make strategic retention decisions, especially regarding captain Rishabh Pant.
The debate over retaining Rishabh Pant has become a focal point for DC fans. Harbhajan Singh wants DC to retain Pant at any cost.
“We have heard a lot of speculation on whether Rishabh Pant will be retained or not. Time will tell, but if I was a part of the management there, then I would have retained him. Rishabh Pant should be retained,” Harbhajan Singh told Star Sports.
Rishabh Pant’s stats speak for themselves
Pant, a fiery left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman, has been central to DC’s success, and his leadership brings a tactical edge. Harbhajan Singh argues that letting Pant go would be a costly decision for DC, as his skills and experience make him an invaluable asset.
His stats reveal consistent performances, particularly under pressure. Pant’s retention is not just about numbers; it’s about keeping the team’s morale and structure intact.
Rishabh Pant’s IPL record shows his potential as a franchise player:
| Year | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 13 | 446 | 40.55 | 155.40 |
| 2022 | 14 | 340 | 30.90 | 151.79 |
| 2021 | 16 | 419 | 34.91 | 128.52 |
How does retaining Rishabh Pant benefit Delhi Capitals?
Leadership skills
Pant’s leadership has helped DC adapt to high-stakes situations. His ability to rally the team and make game-changing decisions is crucial for DC’s prospects in IPL 2025.
Prolific batter
Even though Pant’s form has ebbed and flowed in IPL and T20Is, he remains a constant threat as a batter for the opponents. The idea of releasing Pant and then getting him back using the RTM (Right to Match) card could backfire. Once in the IPL 2025 auction, Pant could fetch big bucks.
Best wicketkeeper
There is no doubt that Rishabh Pant is the best keeper-batter in India at present. And even in T20s, Pant’s skills are invaluable. Despite his poor returns in T20s, he is still the No 1 keeper-batter.
Harbhajan Singh’s Delhi Capitals Retention List for IPL 2025
Harbhajan’s suggested retention list showcases his belief in a mix of experience and rising talent:
- Rishabh Pant: Captain and core batsman.
- Axar Patel: All-rounder with remarkable control in bowling and a handy batting arm.
- Tristan Stubbs: Promising international player with a high strike rate.
- Fraser McGurk: Young talent with impressive domestic stats.
- Mitchell Marsh: Australian all-rounder known for his big-hitting and wicket-taking abilities.
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