IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant's next move confirmed by Delhi player

Rumors surrounding Rishabh Pant’s future with the Delhi Capitals (DC) have been put to rest, with recent reports confirming that the Indian wicketkeeper-batter will stay with the franchise for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

For months, speculation had been rife about Pant’s possible move to another team, with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) emerging as potential top buyers. However, the Delhi Capitals (DC) have made their intentions clear that Pant isn’t going anywhere.

In a game-changing move, the Delhi franchise has reportedly sealed a hefty deal to retain Pant’s services, securing him for the upcoming IPL 2025 and silencing the chatter of his exit.

Aakash Chopra puts an end to rumors, says Rishabh Pant staying with Delhi Capitals (DC)

There were reports that Pant could join Punjab Kings (PBKS) as the former DC head coach Ricky Ponting joined the franchise after they congratulated the Indian star on hammering century in the Chennai Test against Bangladesh.

Now, reacting to the speculations, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra dismissed the possibility of Pant leaving DC, highlighting how crucial it is for the franchise to hold onto their marquee player ahead of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction.

The cricket pandit claimed that a hefty deal has been finalized between Pant and DC, securing his services for the upcoming IPL season. He lauded Delhi’s decision, saying retaining the Indian wicketkeeper-batter is a significant move for the franchise.

Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel: “Rishabh Pant is not going anywhere. There were rumors that Rishabh and the Delhi Capitals were parting ways. Ricky Ponting has gone to Punjab Kings, so maybe Rishabh Pant could be Punjab's new captain, or else Rishabh Pant said that he likes playing in Chennai a lot, so maybe it was CSK.”

The well-known commentator further added, “However, there is a report on Cricbuzz that says that a full stop should be put on all the rumors. Rishabh will be with the Delhi Capitals. A deal has been sealed with an inflated figure. Well done, Delhi; this is one job you have done well. Keep him with you; you won't get anyone again like him.”

Stay with Delhi and make them champions: Aakash Chopra to Rishabh Pant

Many fans were quick to connect Pant to teams like PBKS, especially given his long association with Ponting at DC, but Chopra clarified that these are just rumors. He also mentioned how Pant’s fondness for CSK and his admiration for MS Dhoni fueled speculation about a move to CSK.

Chopra noted, “The rumor market was hot that Rishabh Pant will play for CSK, but that's also not happening; it seems like that.” According to Cricbuzz, Pant is set to remain with DC, where he’s already secured a hefty contract. Chopra believes this is the right move, encouraging Pant to focus on leading Delhi to its first IPL title.

The former Indian batter highlighted how Delhi hasn’t won a major domestic title since their Ranji Trophy win in 2007-08, and he feels Pant will be key in breaking that drought. Chopra signed off by saying, “He was already at 16 crores; he will get huge money, and I like it. You stay there and make Delhi the champions. Delhi hasn't won anything since 2007-08.”