IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Who Will Delhi Capitals Retain? DC Co-Owner Says THIS About Rishabh Pant

The excitement surrounding the Indian Premier League (IPL) never dies, and with the mega auction for IPL 2025 looming large, fans and analysts alike are speculating about player retentions. Amidst this frenzy, Delhi Capitals (DC) co-owner Parth Jindal made headlines when he confirmed the retention of their star wicketkeeper-batter, Rishabh Pant. The confirmation has not only solidified Pant's place in DC’s future plans but also added fuel to the fire as fans debate the possible retentions for IPL 2025.

Rishabh Pant’s Remarkable Comeback

Rishabh Pant, DC’s leading run-scorer, has had a tough year recovering from injuries, but his return to competitive cricket in 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. His dynamic batting and sharp wicketkeeping have always made him a fan favorite, and now, with the mega auction approaching, Pant’s retention was never in doubt. Parth Jindal, while interacting with the media, confirmed, "Yes, we definitely have to retain Rishabh Pant. He is an integral part of our team, and his leadership and cricketing skills are unmatched."

Pant’s return has brought a renewed sense of hope for DC, especially after a somewhat inconsistent 2024 season. His leadership qualities, combined with his aggressive batting style, make him one of the most valuable players in the franchise. Jindal’s confirmation that Pant will remain in DC colors for IPL 2025 was music to the ears of every Delhi Capitals fan.

Who Else Could Delhi Capitals Retain?

The IPL 2025 retention rules allow each franchise to retain up to six players, with a cap on five capped players and two uncapped players. DC’s lineup boasts several key players who have been instrumental in the team’s success. Alongside Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Axar Patel is another strong candidate for retention. Patel has consistently delivered with both bat and ball, providing stability in the middle order and crucial breakthroughs with his left-arm spin.

"Kuldeep Yadav has also been a revelation for us," Jindal added, acknowledging the wrist-spinner's vital role. Kuldeep’s resurgence after his move from Kolkata Knight Riders has been extraordinary, as his wicket-taking ability has made him a key part of DC’s bowling attack. With the team prioritizing a strong bowling unit, Yadav’s retention seems almost certain.

The Auction and the Right to Match (RTM) Option

The IPL Governing Council has set the auction purse at INR 120 crore, with a salary cap of INR 146 crore, providing teams with ample space to build competitive squads. However, if a team chooses to retain all six players, they will forfeit the option to use the Right to Match (RTM) card during the auction. This makes the decision-making process even more crucial for teams like Delhi Capitals.

While players like Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav are likely to stay, the retention of overseas talents like Tristan Stubbs and Jake Fraser-McGurk remains under discussion. Both players have shown flashes of brilliance, but with limited spots for retention, DC's management will need to make tough calls.

In addition to Rishabh Pant’s confirmed retention, players like Mukesh Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, and Abishek Porel could be retained as uncapped players or emerging talents for the future. The combination of senior players and young blood could be the strategy DC employs heading into the IPL 2025 auction.

Key Auction Changes for IPL 2025

One of the most significant updates ahead of the auction is the introduction of a match fee of INR 7.5 lakhs per player, a first in IPL history. This move aligns with the growing professionalism of the league, ensuring players are compensated for every appearance. Moreover, overseas players who register for the auction will face penalties if they withdraw after being selected, ensuring commitment from international stars.

Another notable rule change is that Indian-capped players who haven’t played international cricket in the last five years can now be classified as uncapped players. This opens up a new dynamic for the auction as teams look to maximize their squad depth.