3 IPL teams that may struggle to afford Rishabh Pant despite interest

New Delhi: Rishabh Pant is set to become the costliest Indian player in IPL auction history, with expectations that he could surpass the elusive 20-crore mark. No Indian player has ever crossed this figure, and Pant is poised to break that barrier in the upcoming mega-auction. This follows Delhi Capitals’ decision to release him on retention day.

Rishabh Pant joined Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL 2016 auction and was retained by them before the IPL 2018 and 2022 mega-auctions. As one of the biggest names in the league, nearly every team is expected to bid for him in the upcoming auction. While Punjab Kings are seen as the favorites to secure his services, there are a few franchises that may struggle to acquire him, even if they are interested. Here’s a look at those teams.

Chennai Super Kings

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) would undoubtedly be keen to acquire Rishabh Pant, as he could serve as the perfect long-term replacement for MS Dhoni. However, the Yellow Army faces a significant hurdle with their available budget. With a purse of just Rs 55 crore, CSK may struggle to allocate 20-25 crore for a single player, limiting their ability to pursue Pant despite their interest.

CSK still has several areas to address in their squad, which could prevent them from making a successful bid for Rishabh Pant, even if they are eager to acquire him. With only one Right to Match (RTM) card remaining, CSK’s options are limited, and they will have to prioritize their spending across other key players to strengthen their team for the upcoming season.

Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians (MI) retained their core by holding on to five capped players during the retention day. With a budget of 45 crore remaining after spending 75 crore, MI faces constraints in making a big bid for just one player. Given their need to build a well-rounded team, they will likely focus on strengthening other areas rather than splurging on a single player like Rishabh Pant.

Mumbai Indians (MI) are likely to target Ishan Kishan once again in the upcoming auction. The former India U-19 captain was acquired by MI for Rs 15.25 crore in the IPL 2022 mega-auction, but his price may drop this time. Given their limited budget and focus on filling other team requirements, MI might not be able to place a winning bid for Rishabh Pant.

Kolkata Knight Riders

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) retained six players on retention day, including two uncapped players, leaving them with a balance of Rs 51 crore for the mega-auction. One of their key priorities will be to buy a new captain, as they look to strengthen their leadership options and team composition for the upcoming season.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are likely to target Rishabh Pant if they see him as a potential future captain. However, if they don’t have him in mind for the leadership role, they may not pursue him aggressively. With the need to secure a strong captain, KKR is expected to spend significant money to acquire their next leader in the mega-auction.