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Contrary to the popular perception that Rishabh Pant quit the captaincy of Lucknow Super Giants on his own following a disappointing IPL season, it has now emerged that the Delhi dasher was, in fact, relieved of the role by the franchise shortly after the tournament ended.
While LSG continues to maintain that Pant stepped down voluntarily, sources suggest the reality was quite different. Far from being a personal decision, the move was reportedly initiated by the franchise management, effectively bringing Pant’s tenure as captain to an end.
Sources said that after being removed from the captaincy, Pant was eager to secure a place with another franchise and reached out to several of his peers and former teammates before eventually zeroing in on Delhi Capitals. The franchise, meanwhile, was reportedly dissatisfied with Kuldeep Yadav’s performances this season, making a potential swap an attractive proposition.
Sources further revealed that Pant was not overly concerned about taking a pay cut during negotiations. His primary objective was to return to the franchise that had given him his identity in the IPL. Ahead of the mega auction, Delhi Capitals were initially reluctant to part ways with him, with the GMR group exploring ways to retain the star wicketkeeper-batter. However, the JSW Sports faction, which has built a strong reputation as franchise owners, entered the negotiations and did everything possible to facilitate Pant’s return to the Delhi setup.
Sources also indicated that the LSG management held Pant largely responsible for the franchise’s disastrous 2026 season. According to those familiar with the developments, no other player or member of the team was subjected to the same level of scrutiny and criticism that Pant faced, with the management making him the focal point of its disappointment over the campaign.
“Questions are being raised over the haste with which Pant was removed as captain immediately after the IPL season. At the same time, Pant too appeared keen to secure a move elsewhere rather than continue with a franchise where he no longer felt valued,” the source said while adding that the speed with which both parties moved says it all.
