Delhi Capitals’ newly appointed head coach, Hemang Badani, has disclosed the reason behind why the franchise could not retain Rishabh Pant, the wicketkeeper-batter. Despite co-owner Parth Jindal stating that Pant’s departure was not about money, Badani revealed that Pant wanted to explore the market as he believed he deserved more.
At the IPL mega auction in Saudi Arabia, Pant was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants for INR 27 crore. Delhi Capitals did have the option to retain Pant, but when LSG raised their bid to the same amount, Delhi withdrew their offer. Badani stated that Pant always felt he was worth more than the highest cap for retained players, which was INR 18 crore.
According to Badani, Pant expressed his desire to go to the auction and assess his market value. Despite efforts from the team management to retain him, Pant was determined to explore other options. Eventually, Pant’s decision paid off as he secured a deal worth INR 27 crore, making him the most expensive signing in IPL history.
Pant had refuted claims that his departure from Delhi Capitals was money-related, emphasizing that his decision was not based on financial motives. Jindal also mentioned that Pant’s exit was due to a difference in feedback given to him by the franchise.
In conclusion, despite Delhi Capitals’ efforts to retain Pant, he chose to enter the auction to determine his true worth, ultimately landing a lucrative deal with Lucknow Super Giants. Pant’s departure from the franchise was not solely about money but also about seeking new opportunities and challenges in his career.
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