The Indian Premier League (IPL) transfer market is already beginning to generate buzz ahead of the 2027 season, with two major Indian stars reportedly on the move. As reported by the Times of India, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is likely to make a return to Delhi Capitals (DC), while left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is expected to join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Pant’s potential homecoming to Delhi comes after a difficult two-year stint with Lucknow. The explosive batter became the most expensive player in IPL history when LSG secured his services for INR 27 crore ahead of the 2025 auction. However, things did not go according to plan for either Pant or the franchise.
The southpaw endured underwhelming campaigns with the bat, scoring 269 runs in IPL 2025 before managing 312 runs in the 2026 edition. Lucknow also struggled collectively, finishing seventh in 2025 and ending at the bottom of the table in the recently concluded season. Following the disappointing campaign, Pant stepped down from the captaincy role.
Reports suggest that Pant himself initiated discussions regarding his exit, with the franchise agreeing to his request. While a return to Delhi Capitals appears increasingly likely, it remains unclear whether the 29-year-old will immediately reclaim the captaincy role. The franchise is reportedly evaluating its leadership options, with KL Rahul emerging as a strong contender for the position.
Kuldeep Yadav likely to swap Delhi for Lucknow
Meanwhile, another significant development could see Kuldeep Yadav leave Delhi Capitals after a successful five-year association. The spinner was retained by DC for INR 13.25 crore ahead of IPL 2025 and has been one of the franchise’s most reliable performers since joining in 2022.
Kuldeep played a key role in reviving his white-ball career during his time with Delhi and consistently delivered impactful performances. His standout season came in 2022, when he picked up 21 wickets in just 14 matches. He followed that campaign with wicket tallies of 10, 16, 15, and 10 in the subsequent editions, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier spin bowlers.
Lucknow Super Giants are now reportedly keen to bring the experienced spinner into their setup as part of a larger squad overhaul ahead of IPL 2027. With Pant expected to move in the opposite direction, the two franchises could be set for one of the biggest transfer stories in IPL history.
