Abishek Porel ready to see Rishabh Pant as “opponent” as he is ready to resume keeper’s role
The Delhi Capitals (DC) will head into IPL 2025 without their star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who was sold to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a record-breaking ₹27 crores in the mega auction. This made Pant the highest-priced player in IPL history. DC attempted to retain Pant using the Right to Match (RTM) card but couldn’t match LSG’s massive bid, marking the end of Pant’s eight-year association with the franchise.
Pant’s departure followed a fallout with DC management over retention strategies, despite his stellar record as their all-time leading run-scorer. Meanwhile, young Bengal wicketkeeper Abhishek Porel, who stepped up during Pant’s injury in 2023, remains optimistic about DC’s prospects. “He is a big player, and we tried to get him back, but things didn’t work out. We’ve built a strong team and will see him as an opponent now,” Porel stated confidently.
With KL Rahul also unavailable for DC, Porel is set to take on full-time wicketkeeping responsibilities in IPL 2025. The 21-year-old is eager to prove his mettle as Delhi looks to rebuild their squad and challenge for the title. Fans will now watch closely as Pant faces his former team in what promises to be a fiery contest.