Mon Nov 25 09:36:14 UTC 2024: **Delhi Capitals Snag KL Rahul in IPL 2025 Mega Auction Despite Missing Out on Pant and Iyer**
NEW DELHI – The Delhi Capitals experienced a mixed bag at the IPL 2025 mega auction. While they failed to secure star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who went to the Lucknow Super Giants for a whopping ₹27 crore, they managed to acquire KL Rahul for ₹14 crore and Mitchell Starc for ₹11.75 crore. The team also missed out on Shreyas Iyer, who joined Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore.
The Capitals’ co-owner, Parth Jindal, expressed his delight at securing Rahul, highlighting his consistent run-scoring ability and experience as key factors in their decision. Jindal emphasized the need for a stable top-order batsman and believes Rahul’s style will suit the Kotla pitch. He also noted that Rahul’s wicketkeeping and captaincy skills make him a perfect replacement for Pant and that he and Axar Patel will provide strong leadership for the young batting lineup.
Starc, a key player in Kolkata Knight Riders’ championship win last season, brings a wealth of experience and a formidable pace-bowling attack to Delhi. His acquisition, along with Rahul’s, signals the Capitals’ intent to build a strong and competitive team for the upcoming season. Jindal indicated that the team would focus on bolstering their bowling attack further on the second day of the auction. While there’s no official announcement on the captaincy, Jindal hinted that both Rahul and Patel are potential candidates for the role.
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