IPL 2025 Auction: Rishabh Pant Bids Emotional Farewell to Delhi Capitals, Joins Lucknow Super Giants for Record ₹27 Crore

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Rishabh Pant, the former Delhi Capitals (DC) captain, penned an emotional farewell message to the franchise after being acquired by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a record-breaking ₹27 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction.

The move marks the end of Pant's nine-year association with DC, a franchise where he made his debut as a teenager and grew into a leader and fan favorite. "Goodbyes are never easy," Pant wrote in a heartfelt post on Instagram.

"The journey with Delhi Capitals has been nothing short of amazing. From the thrills on the field to the moments off it, I've grown in ways I never imagined. I came here as a teenager, and we grew together over the last nine years."

Pant thanked fans for their unwavering support, especially during one of the toughest phases of his life, referencing his recovery from a serious car accident. "What made this journey all worthwhile is you, the fans. You've embraced me, cheered for me, and stood by me," he said.

He added "As I move on, I carry your love and support in my heart." Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal also shared an emotional message on Twitter, calling Pant his "younger brother" and expressing sadness over the departure.

"To Rishabh Pant, you are and will always remain my younger brother. I am very sad to see you go and very emotional about it. Thank you for everything, Rishabh. The world is at your feet," Jindal wrote, wishing for a future reunion.

Pant's move to LSG has made him the most expensive player in IPL history, surpassing Shreyas Iyer's ₹26.75 crore deal with Punjab Kings earlier in the same auction. The Lucknow franchise outbid Sunrisers Hyderabad, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Capitals.

DC briefly exercised their Right to Match at ₹20.75 crore before bowing out. Despite parting ways, Pant's legacy at Delhi Capitals remains unmatched. Over nine seasons, he emerged as a key player, contributing not only with his runs but also his leadership on the field.