Whatever happens, Pant does his own job, it has been proven once again during India’s tough time in the Adelaide Test.  

At the stumps on day two, Australia are seeing a great opportunity to level the series by winning the day-night pink ball Adelaide Test. After India were all out for 180 runs in the first innings, Australia replied with a total of 337. 

Starting their second innings of the Adelaide Test match by trailing 157 runs, India were never in a comfortable position due to losing wickets at regular intervals.

Watch: Confused Mitchell Marsh loses his wicket in surprising way in Adelaide Test

Rishabh Pant dominated against Scott Boland

Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant joined the crease after the former Indian captain Virat Kohli was out against the fast bowler Scott Boland. While Pant was facing his first ball of the innings, he charged Boland and hit a boundary over the mid-off. Although Boland had already taken two wickets in that innings, fearless Pant had no confusion about directly attacking the fast bowler by dancing down the track. In Boland's next over, Pant brought on an unorthodox shot for a four. 

First-ball boundary ✅
Outrageous shot ✅

🔥 𝙍𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙗𝙝 𝙋𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞™ - "Yeh tuk tuk ke nahi, thok thok ke jawab dete hai!" 🏏💥#AUSvINDOnStar 2nd Test, Day 2 👉 LIVE NOW! #AUSvIND | #ToughestRivalry pic.twitter.com/OluZZu52ZP

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 7, 2024

Shubman Gill was out in the next over as the right-handed batter became the seventh victim of Mitchell Starc in the Adelaide Test, and India were struggling at 86/4. However, once again, Pant was successfully able to play fearless shots. While Boland continued his spell, Pant hit two successive fours, including another unorthodox shot where he fell into the crease but managed to add four runs. 

Rishabh Pant is re-inventing batting in Test cricket. He’s truly something else!#INDvsAUS

pic.twitter.com/wRGjlZaKkB

— Madhav Sharma (@HashTagCricket) December 7, 2024

Pant was not out for 28 runs

India ended the second day of the Adelaide Test at 128/5 as they were still trailing by 29 runs. Pant was not out for 28 runs off 25 balls (five fours) and had a 23-run partnership for the unbroken sixth wicket with the new all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who scored 15 not out. To make a miracle in this Test, both the batters have to play strong roles for the visitors, who are leading the series by 1-0.

The 2025 IPL Mega Auction has kept several cricket fanatics and critics on the hook, as it dealt with cash-rich bids under the hammer and impeccable campaigners who will be a part of different or their old and homely franchises. As the Mega Auction notion suggests, almost every side has gone for a significant restructuring, whether going for a new captain or parting ways with their reliable bowling duo; it has shown it all.

However, the recent Mega Auction saw a colossal amount of bucks spent on several promising contenders. As expected, this time, we know a list comprising sole domestic players who have made a mark to the most expensive players for the forthcoming tournament, highlighting their robust calibre in offer for the respective franchises. That said, here's the list of the top five most expensive bids from the 2025 IPL Mega Auction. 

Rishabh Pant- INR 27 Crores (Lucknow Super Giants)

Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in IPL history when the Lucknow Super Giants signed him for a staggering INR 27 crore. Lucknow emerged victorious in a tough bidding battle against clubs such as Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Delhi Capitals, with the latter wanting to recover their former skipper. 

As the Super Giants released their first and reliable captain, KL Rahul, it was clear that the arsenal would go all out to capture the dashing left-handed wicketkeeper. A strong batsman with an IPL stats of 3,284 runs in 111 matches and a strike rate of 148.93 helps to add tremendous value to Lucknow's squad, which might potentially fill the wicketkeeping and, more importantly, their captaincy deficit.  

Shreyas Iyer- INR 26.75 Crores (Punjab Kings)

Shreyas Iyer, who guided the Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title in 2024, was signed by the Punjab Super Kings for an enormous INR 26.75 crore. The fierce bidding saw Punjab, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata compete, with Punjab eventually outlasting the others. Iyer broke Mitchell Starc's IPL 2024 record for the highest-paid player, but Pant topped him shortly after.

With the Punjab Kings still to win their maiden IPL trophy, it would be interesting to observe how Iyer will lead his high-profile and influential team under the direction of his old coach, Ricky Ponting. Iyer, known for his dependability, has 3,127 runs in 115 IPL matches, which will help to stabilise Punjab's middle order as their new captain.  

Venkatesh Iyer- INR 23.75 Crores (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Despite releasing him before, the Kolkata Knight Riders went all out to re-sign Venkatesh Iyer for INR 23.75 crore. Iyer, known for his all-around abilities, was instrumental in KKR's success and continues to be a valuable asset to the brand. Kolkata won the bidding fight over Lucknow and Bengaluru.

In exchange, it has elicited various criticisms and perplexing thoughts about his performance and height, which deserve the price tag. But, as time passes, seeing how the most expensive IPL allrounder performs for the reigning champions will be intriguing. Iyer has 1,326 runs with a strike rate of 137.13 and three wickets in 50 IPL matches since making his debut in 2021. 

See Also: IPL 2025: Know about Priyansh Arya, Gurjapneet Singh, and Eshan Malinga?

Arshdeep Singh- INR 18 Crores (Punjab Kings)

Arshdeep Singh triggered a bidding battle as the day's first name. Teams including Chennai, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Gujarat made competitive bids before the Punjab Super Kings utilised their Right to Match (RTM) card to retain him for INR 18 crore. The 25-year-old left-arm bowler, who won the T20 World Cup, has 76 wickets in 65 IPL games and excelled with his recent exploits for India, including being the joint-highest wicket-taker in the recent successful 2024 T20 World Cup.

To summarise, his ability to bowl under pressure makes him an essential player for Punjab, putting tremendous pressure on any batsman with the new ball and simultaneously in the death overs.

Yuzvendra Chahal- INR 18 Crores (Punjab Kings)

Yuzvendra Chahal, IPL's prominent spinmeister, was signed by Punjab Kings for INR 18 crore. Gujarat, Chennai, and Lucknow first contended for the star legspinner until Punjab emerged successfully against Hyderabad in the intense bidding war. Chahal, who has a fantastic record in numerous sports formats, provides experience and match-winning qualities to Punjab's bowling attack.

This will be Chahal's fourth IPL team, following stints with Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Rajasthan. In his 160-match career, he has taken 205 wickets, making him the tournament's all-time leading wicket-taker, making it the cherry on top for the new Punjab Kings squad. 

Indian wicketkeeper batter Rishabh Pant was the talk of the IPL Mega Auction 2025 as Lucknow Supergiants secured him for the whopping amount of 27 Crore, making him the most expensive buy in the IPL auction history.

Goenka shared that they had plans to buy Rishabh Pant

"We had structured the auction in a certain way and Pant was an integral part of our plans. We had done some budgeting for him. Look we could not get Bhuvneshwar Kumar and we went for Akash Deep. We wanted two Indian fast bowlers and we spent INR 9.75 crore on Avesh and INR 8 crore on Akash Deep. This was not about one individual player. Did we want to have the most expensive player? No. At the end of the day, this does not mean very much to the franchise. Eventually, it is about performance and how the team balance looks."

Australia’s bowlers showcased outstanding skill and precision, reducing India to a challenging position in the ongoing Test match in Perth. The standout performances came from Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who took key wickets as India struggled to build partnerships. With precise bowling and sharp fielding, the hosts are in a commanding position.

Reddy's promising knock cut short by brilliant catch

Amidst the top-order fall Reddy was trying to stand tall on his debut match, but in a moment of brilliance, Usman Khawaja took a stunning running catch to dismiss India's Nitish Reddy for 41 (59). Reddy had been looking confident at the crease, displaying impressive shots, including an upper-cut for six and a few boundaries. However, his promising innings ended when he top-edged a pull shot off Pat Cummins’ bowling, handing Khawaja a spectacular catch.

Pant falls to Cummins after brief resistance

Rishabh Pant, who had been playing steadily, fell for 37 (78) when a thick leading edge was caught by Steve Smith in the slips off Cummins’ bowling. Pant’s dismissal proved to be a turning point, as India lost another key wicket, leaving their middle order exposed.

Earlier Dhruv Jurel (11 off 20) also fell to Starc, caught by Labuschagne, while Washington Sundar (4 off 15) was dismissed poking outside off, caught by Carey. KL Rahul (26 off 74) was given out caught behind after a review confirmed an edge. Virat Kohli (5 off 12) and Devdutt Padikkal (0 off 23) fell to short-pitched deliveries, both caught by Khawaja and Carey respectively. Yashasvi Jaiswal (0) was another early casualty, edging Starc to McSweeney at gully. India’s lower order struggled to resist, and they were eventually dismissed by the Australian bowlers in a dominant performance.

See Also: "Follow the process" - Here's what Kohli says Yashasvi before the Perth Test

Marsh strikes twice, breaking India's middle order

Australia’s bowlers delivered a clinical performance, picking up wickets at crucial moments and putting India under constant pressure. Pat Cummins was the standout, claiming key wickets, including that of Nitish Reddy, who was caught by Khawaja after a tough midwicket chance, and Bumrah, who edged a full delivery to Carey. Josh Hazlewood also played a pivotal role, dismissing both Kohli and Padikkal, with the former caught by Khawaja and the latter caught by Carey. Nathan Lyon, with his subtle spin, contributed by dismissing Nitish Reddy with a reverse-sweep catch, further rattling the Indian lineup. Mitchell Starc made his mark with wickets of Jurel and Jaiswal, while Mitchell Marsh’s accurate bowling accounted for Sundar, caught by Carey. The Australian bowlers, led by Cummins and supported by Hazlewood, Lyon, Starc, and Marsh, were relentless in their efforts, securing India’s collapse and restricting them to a modest total.

India were bowled out for 150, with Nitish Reddy (41) and Rishabh Pant (38) being the top scorers. Australia’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood (4/29) and Mitchell Marsh (2/12), dominated the innings.

India barely managed to crawl past the 100-run against a relentless Australian bowling attack. The absence of seasoned campaigners like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane was palpable as Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Marsh tormented the Indian lineup. Fans couldn’t help but reminisce about the duo, who are now offering insights from the commentary box instead of their usual stoic presence at the crease.

Pant's lone fight amid the collapse

Amid a top-order failure, Rishabh Pant stood tall with his characteristic grit and flair. He endured the Aussie pace barrage, including a fiery spell from Mitchell Starc, and capitalized on a rare dropped catch by Pat Cummins. Pant's ability to counter-attack gave India a glimmer of hope, especially after debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy joined him to stabilize the innings. Their partnership, although scratchy, ensured India crossed the 100-run mark. A fuller delivery on a straighter line swings away late, catching Rishabh Pant's outside edge as he tries to flick. Steven Smith at second slip grabs a sharp catch, ending Pant's valiant knock of 37 off 78. India now reeling at 121/7.

However, it wasn’t smooth sailing. Starc's probing deliveries and Marsh's crucial breakthroughs left India reeling. A spirited effort from Pant brought some respite, but the road ahead remains arduous for the hosts.

See Also: AUS vs IND, Perth Test: Was KL Rahul really out? Explained

Fans yearn for Pujara and Rahane's stability

As the wickets kept tumbling, fans turned nostalgic, recalling the resilience of Pujara and Rahane. Social media was abuzz with comparisons, with many lamenting the absence of the experienced duo in the lineup. Their commentary, insightful as ever, added salt to the wounds of fans yearning for their calmness under pressure.

The current Indian batting order may have talent, but the lack of experience was evident against the likes of Starc and Cummins. As India inch forward, the onus lies on Pant and the lower order to salvage what remains of a challenging innings.

See Also: IPL 2025 to start on March 14; Dates revealed for next three seasons

Where is the number 3 of this Indian team who defends for 50 over and softens the ball so that the likes of Pant can come and play their shots for the next 30 overs? Where is the wall of India? Who is the Dravid, Pujara Rahane of this team #INDvsAUS #BGT2025#Kohli

— MadMax (@BullsVsBearss) November 22, 2024

Two left-handers, two ducks, and Paddikal’s struggles finally come to an end… Trust me, this tour will constantly remind you of Rahane and Pujara at every moment. pic.twitter.com/6rBtEi439Z

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) November 22, 2024

Pujji should be allowed to step down from com box to the crease for gods sake ,For every Pant to win you games, you need a Pujara to stand like a rock at the other end. Sadly we don't .

— Jaammii.. (@Jaammiing) November 22, 2024

INDIA HAVE SCORED MORE THAN 36 RUNS IN AUSTRALIA. 🤯😳

— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) November 22, 2024

national animal of australia - kangaroo
national animal of india - duck

— Xavier Uncle (@xavierunclelite) November 22, 2024

Australia thought they can get India out under 50? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Let's laugh at the Aussies.

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 22, 2024

When the whole team is playing like they've never seen a cricket bat but you're just a chill guy standing in the middle with the number 17 jersey on. pic.twitter.com/I1Ay5vylKi

— Heisenberg ☢ (@internetumpire) November 22, 2024

In the ecosystem of intense cricket rivals, the India vs Australia clash, a.k.a, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has always aroused a sense of anticipation for a fierce game amongst many cricket fanatics. Hailed as one of the best vs. best series, the tournament has provided some wholesome cricketing action and moments meant to be remembered for the coming ages of the sport.

One such aspect would be the batters who did the trick with their willows and struck memorable batting performances, making it a treat to the eye. That said, amongst many from the list, here's a list of the top five batting innings from the Indian roster that has defined a whole of what a Border-Gavaskar Trophy matchup looks like. 

Rahul Dravid: 233 runs off 446 balls in Adelaide 2003-04

Rahul Dravid played an essential part in India's victory in the Adelaide test during the 2003/04 tour. Australia scored 556 runs, with Ricky Ponting contributing 242. In response, India was reduced to 85/4, and VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid came together. The two struck a massive 303-run stand for the fifth wicket to get India back into the game. Rahul Dravid scored 223 runs off 446 balls, while Laxman contributed 148. Dravid smashed 22 fours and one six in his knock, helping India score 523 runs. Australia responded 196 to Ajit Agarkar's 6/41, giving India just 230 runs to win. After Virender Sehwag had a terrific start, Dravid stepped in again. Dravid spearheaded the chase with 72*, helping India to scalp a convincing victory by four wickets.

Virat Kohli: 116 runs off 213 balls in Adelaide 2011-12

Virat Kohli produced a fantastic innings of 116 runs off 213 deliveries at the Adelaide Oval in January 2012 during India's fourth and final Test tour of Australia. In the first innings, a young Virat showed talent, commitment, and poise against a formidable Australian bowling attack. He played with a good attitude, counterattacking when appropriate and defending well when needed. Kohli's century in Adelaide was his first Test century, and it was noteworthy, as he demonstrated excellent shot selection, timing, and footwork, allowing him to collect runs easily. Although India eventually lost the match, the youngster's innings made an indelible impact and laid the groundwork for his future success.

Cheteshwar Pujara: 193 runs off 373 balls in Sydney 2018-19

India had a 2-1 lead going into this match and was confident of retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the end of the series. Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been immaculate throughout the series, is determined to put on a show for the last time to assist India achieve its goal. Pujara demonstrated his typical calm, discipline, and resistance when dealing with the dangerous Australian onslaught. However, he used every opportunity to knock the poor deliveries away, scoring 22 boundaries in his innings of 193 runs off 373 deliveries. As Pujara continued to pile up the runs, Australia's last-ditch bid to escape a series triumph faded. The batter appeared unstoppable at times, and his psychological drain on the opposition's bowling assault may have played a vital role in India's historic series triumph.

Also Read: Top 5 Memorable Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches played in Australia

 Virat Kohli: 169 runs off 272 balls in Melbourne 2014-15

In December 2014, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat Kohli produced one of his best Test innings against Australia. On the first day of the Boxing Day Test, Kohli showed incredible determination and perseverance. He scored an impressive 169 runs off 272 deliveries, including 30 boundaries. His performance was critical in stabilising the Indian innings and laying a firm foundation for the squad. This innings demonstrated Kohli's ability to thrive under challenging conditions and against top-tier competition. Notably, Kohli's effort at the MCG in 2014 helped India take a significant first-innings lead, but the team could not win the match.

Rishabh Pant: 89* runs off 138 balls in Brisbane 2020-21

The victory in the Brisbane Test (Gabba) Test in 2021 is widely regarded as one of the most defining moments in Indian cricket history, thanks to Rishabh Pant's unbeaten match-winning knock of 89 runs off 138 deliveries, anchoring India's successful chase of 328 runs, the highest-ever target chased at the Gabba. In addition, against all odds, the Indian cricket team won a surprising series triumph over Australia at the tough 'Fortress Gabba,' a location where Australia had not lost a Test since 1988. Pant, who finished fifth, demonstrated maturity and control. Pant, known for his aggressive and reckless batting style, was unconcerned about the occasion's scenario or pressure. 

The tension is always high in the India-Australia rivalry, especially in the game's purest form. The two sides have played some of the most memorable Tests in the game's history. This legendary rivalry dates back several decades, during which both cricketing powerhouses dominated the prestigious Test format. The thrilling confrontations between India's tenacious batting and Australia's fearsome bowling arsenal are at the core of this long-standing rivalry.

To summarise, this is a straightforward fight of the best vs the best. India have won the Border-Gavaskar trophy (BGT) four times in a row, and the hosts from Australia are eager to reverse the trend in the upcoming five-match Test series. That said, here's a comprehensive list of the five Test matches played in Australia that have made a mark on several cricket fanatics since the BGT's inception.

·   2003 Adelaide

The 2003 Adelaide clash-up was India's first Test victory in Australia since 1980-81 when they won in Melbourne. After Ricky Ponting's 242 propelled Australia to 556 in the first innings, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman re-wrote their epic partnership at Eden Gardens with a historic 303-run stand for the fifth wicket. Dravid's fourth Test double-hundred was a resounding response to his doubters who questioned his ability to score runs in Australia.

The Indian number three not only exorcised the ghosts of the 1999-2000 Australia trip with this innings but also joined the ranks of the greats. Ajit Agarkar's remarkable statistics of 6/41 guaranteed that Australia were bowled out for 196 runs in their second innings, setting India a 230-run goal. Dravid followed up his first-innings effort with an unbeaten 72 in the second as India chased down the mark and won by four wickets to grab a 1-0 series lead against Australia for the first time in history.

·   2008 Sydney

The Sydney Test clash between India and Australia was one of the most contentious games in the sport's history. Happened way back in 2008, the match sparked controversy due to the number of umpiring errors by senior umpires Steve Bucknor and Mark Benson. Furthermore, Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh was charged with racist abuse to Aussies players like Michael Clarke, Andrew Symonds, and Ricky Ponting.

At the same time, Australian players were accused of lousy sportsmanship for attempting to influence the umpire's decision, resulting in several issues, and being touted as the infamous Monkeygate Scandal. Nonetheless, Australia won the game on Day 5 with minutes to spare, giving them a 2-0 series lead after winning the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

·   2008 Perth

The Perth Test from the 2008 Border-Gasvaskar Trophy deserves to be included. Even though it only lasted four days, the game alternated between the two teams from session to session. The Anil-Kumble-led squad fought after falling 0-2 in the series to defeat the hosts and make it 2-1 heading into the final Test. At the time, no team had beaten the Australians at the WACA in Perth in almost eleven years.

To make matters better, it was India's first victory in Australia in over four years. It was much more crucial for the Indian team and spectators since the Test triumph in Perth came shortly after the SCG Test, which was beset by numerous issues, mainly the infamous Monkeygate Scandal. Overall, this match signified the impeccable grit and resilience of the Indian Cricket team.

·   2018 Melbourne

India's close victory over Australia in the series opener of the 2018-19 Tour in Melbourne provided a glimpse of how India will be a dominant red-ball team overseas. India got bowled out for 250 when Virat Kohli chose to bat first despite Cheteshwar Pujara's valiant 123. However, Indian spinners remained strong and never let the Australian batters settle in.

Travis Head top-scored with 72 as Australia were dismissed for 235, behind India by 15 runs. The visitors then extended their advantage by 307 runs, giving Australia a colossal target of 323 runs. The Indian bowlers grabbed the initiative, like they had in the previous innings, and bowled the hosts out for 291. Bumrah, Shami, and Ashwin took three wickets each as India.

·   2021 Brisbane

The Indian-Aussies clash up match in 2021 at the Gabba was an exciting and historic encounter, providing edge-of-the-seat cricketing entertainment. Australia won the toss and chose to bat first, amassing 369 runs in the opening innings. Marnus Labuschagne scored 108 runs, and debutant Washington Sundar took four wickets for India. In response, India scored 336 runs, with Shardul Thakur leading the way with 67 runs.

As a result, the Australians were bowled out for 294, giving India a target of 328. India, despite early losses, demonstrated amazing perseverance. Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara established a solid platform, while Rishabh Pant's aggressive effort boosted India's hopes. On the final day, Pant's undefeated 89 runs lead India to a historic three-wicket triumph. India won their first Test at the Gabba, breaking Australia's 32-year unbroken record there. It was also India's second straight Test series win in Australia.

Scenes of absolute comedy ensued when Sarfaraz dropped a simple catch during the first day of India's pre-match ahead of the first Test. Sarfaraz was accompanied by Virat Kohli, Rishab Pant, and Dhruv Jurel who were all in close proximity to him. The group was in the midst of a routine fielding drill when this incident occured. 

Sarfaraz made a simple catch look too difficult when he attempted to gobble the ball with his palms out next to his face triggering an instant reaction from Virat, Pant, and Jurel who were left in splits. 

Here is how the incident unfolded 

The ball flew to the left of Sarfaraz at a very catchable height. What was supposed to be regulation catch turned out to be a moment of absolute comedy. Once the catch went down, players next to him could not hold their emoitions and immediately burst into laughter. 

What did Sarfaraz do? 🤪🤪 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/P2PgQ5KAJX

— Chloe-Amanda Bailey (@ChloeAmandaB) November 19, 2024

That moment immideatly triggered a funny response from Kohli and Jurel who were seen covering their mouth whilst laughing whereas Pant couldn't stop laughing either and was left floored by the hilarious moment.  

How are they gearing up for the Perth showdown?

As per emerging reports, it is believed that Sarfaraz Khan may not get to feature in the playing Xl for the Perth Test. However, his wicket-keeping counter part Rishab Pant is set to play the first test as a wicket-keeper batsman in all likelihood. Moreover, with Gill ruled out due to a thumb injury, Devdutt Padikkal gets an opportunity to open the batting for India in the upcoming Test while Jurel is likely to play as frontline batter. All eyes will be on king Kohli and his deteoriating form and whether or not he will be able to reclaim his lost glory in Australia in his dying phase of his Test career. 

See also: Watch: Virat Kohli reveals his best Test knock in Australia
   

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant is arguably the in-demand name in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction. He clarified that his departure from Delhi Capitals was not due to any disagreement with the franchise regarding his retention fee. Pant responded after Sunil Gavaskar suggested that he might have left the franchise due to a dispute over his retention fee. However, Pant confirmed this wasn't true.

Star Sports shared a video ahead of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, Sunil Gavaskar said that sometimes players may leave their franchises to understand their true value in auction. As Pant's case isn't the same, Gavaskar expects that the wicketkeeper batter will be targeted by Delhi once again in the Auction.

See Also:- Daniel Vettori to attend IPL Auction amid First BGT Test

Sunil Gavaskar talks about Pant returning to Delhi Capitals

"Delhi would certainly want Rishabh Pant back in the squad. Sometimes when a player is to be retained, there is talk between the player and franchise about the fees that is expected. As you can see, some of the players who have been retained by the franchise, they've gone for more than what the No. 1 retention fee would've been. Maybe there was some disagreement over there (fees). "My feeling is Delhi would definitely want Pant back because they need a captain as well. If Rishabh Pant is not in their squad then they have to look for a new captain,".

The curious case of Rishabh Pant & Delhi! 🧐

🗣 Hear it from #SunilGavaskar as he talks about the possibility of @RishabhPant17 returning to the Delhi Capitals!

📺 Watch #IPLAuction 👉 NOV 24th & 25th, 2:30 PM onwards on Star Sports Network & JioCinema! pic.twitter.com/ugrlilKj96

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 19, 2024

Reacting to the video, Pant said his departure from the franchise wasn't about money.

"My retention wasn't about the money for sure that I can say," Rishabh Pant said in his reply to the post on X, formerly Twitter.

Rishabh Pant is expected to have all 10 franchised bidding for him. But as per the purse, he will likely join Punjab Kings, Lucknow Supergiants, or Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Even his return to DC via RTM can be ruled out.