IPL: Rishabh Pant to be Delhi Capitals' top retention choice
What's the story
Rishabh Pant, the 26-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, is set to continue his journey with the Delhi Capitals.
This confirmation comes amid rumors about his future with the team and alleged disagreements over his retention fee.
As per Cricbuzz, a decision was made following a meeting between Pant and co-owner Parth Jindal.
Although the BCCI has not yet disclosed the retention rules, sources within the franchise's ownership group have confirmed that Pant will be their primary choice for retention.
Here's more.
Salary hike
Pant's IPL salary expected to increase
Pant's current Indian Premier League (IPL) salary stands at Rs. 16 crore.
However, this figure is anticipated to rise based on the total player purse permitted to a franchise and the retention fee guidelines set by the BCCI.
Pant led the Delhi Capitals last year after missing out on the 2023 season due to an accident.
Since his return, he has maintained his form both as a batter and wicketkeeper, demonstrating his unique batting style.
Stellar comeback
Pant's impressive performance in the 2024 IPL season
In the 2024 IPL, Pant scored 446 runs in 13 games with an impressive strike rate of 155.
He is also the all-time leading run-scorer for the franchise with a total of 3,284 runs. This performance further solidifies his position as a valuable asset to the team.
The Delhi Capitals's management has also reportedly made decisions on retaining other players.
If permitted by BCCI rules, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav are expected to be retained by the franchise.
Hundred
Pant celebrates Test comeback with stunning century
Pant made a triumphant return to Test cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter smoked a stunning century on Day 3 of the ongoing first Test match against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Notably, Pant's preceding Test apperance came in December 2022, against Bangladesh.
Pant managed 39 runs in the 1st innings. He smashed 109 from 128 balls in the 2nd innings as India set the visitors a record target of 515 runs at the Chepauk.