Former Indian wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta stirred speculation about Rishabh Pant’s potential future in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp, suggesting a prospect of Pant donning the yellow jersey in IPL 2025. The assertion comes amidst Pant’s progressive recovery from a car accident in December 2022.
“MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant are very close. Don’t be surprised if they get Rishabh Pant by IPL 2025,” stated Dasgupta in a video on his official Twitter handle, emphasizing the strong bond between the two players and their similar approach to the game.
Pant’s recovery from the injury sustained in the car accident has seen positive developments as he rejoined Delhi Capitals’ camp in Kolkata. However, his non-participation in training sessions during this visit has raised questions about his readiness for the upcoming season.
While Dhoni led CSK to their fifth IPL title last season, concerns loom over his future in the squad. Dasgupta hinted at Pant potentially stepping into Dhoni’s shoes post the 2024 season. “Rishabh adores MS, and MS also likes him very much. Their connection and Rishabh’s thinking are very similar,” Dasgupta added, fueling speculation about a possible succession plan.
Delhi Capitals, missing Pant’s presence in IPL 2023, endured a disappointing season, finishing second from bottom in the points table and exiting the playoff race early.
As the mega auction preceding the 2025 IPL season approaches, both CSK and DC have made significant releases to create room for fresh talent and strategic acquisitions. CSK, letting go of players like Ben Stokes, Dwaine Pretorius, and others, aim to restructure their squad, while Delhi Capitals released 11 players, including overseas stars like Rilee Rossouw and Rovman Powell, to revamp their roster.
The upcoming auctions on December 19 will set the stage for strategic reshuffling and potentially crucial acquisitions. The possible shift of Rishabh Pant to CSK, as hinted by Dasgupta, adds an intriguing dimension to the evolving dynamics of IPL team compositions and player strategies.
