Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav [Source: AFP]
The IPL 2026 season might have ended last month, but preparations for the next edition have already started.
One of the biggest talking points at the moment is the possible trade involving Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Delhi Capitals (DC).
According to reports, LSG are planning to release Rishabh Pant, who could make a return to his former franchise. Pant was bought by LSG for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction.
However, he is now expected to move back to Delhi Capitals in a trade worth around Rs 15 crore. The two franchises are reportedly working on the final formalities, and the deal will also need approval from the BCCI before it becomes official.
Both teams had disappointing IPL 2026 campaigns. Notably, LSG finished at the bottom of the points table for the first time in their history.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals narrowly missed out on a playoff spot and ended the season in sixth place with seven wins and seven losses.
While the Pant-Kuldeep trade has grabbed most of the attention, there are a few other player swaps that could also happen between the two teams before IPL 2027.
3 possible trades between DC and LSG apart from Rishabh Pant-Kuldeep Yadav
Ashutosh Sharma - Ayush Badoni
Ashutosh Sharma was retained by Delhi Capitals after an impressive IPL 2025 season. He scored 204 runs in nine innings and played several useful knocks in the middle order.
However, things changed in IPL 2026, as Delhi Capitals didn't give him enough opportunities. Instead, the franchise preferred players like Sameer Rizvi in several matches.
Now, with reports suggesting that Rishabh Pant could return to Delhi Capitals, the team's batting lineup may become even more crowded.
As a result, Ashutosh Sharma might find it difficult to secure a regular place in the playing XI.
On the other hand, LSG need a dependable finisher who can win matches in pressure situations and build partnerships in the middle order. Ashutosh fits that role quite well.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals could benefit from a batter like Ayush Badoni, who can bat at No. 3 or No. 4 and play aggressive cricket from the start. Since Badoni is a Delhi player and knows the local conditions well, a move to DC could make sense for both parties.
Therefore, a trade involving Ashutosh Sharma and Ayush Badoni could prove to be a win-win situation for both franchises ahead of IPL 2027.
Kyle Jamieson - Shahbaz Ahmed
Apart from the Pant-Kuldeep trade rumours, another possible swap could involve Kyle Jamieson and Shahbaz Ahmed.
Notably, LSG struggled with their pace attack during IPL 2026. Although they had Indian bowlers like Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav, and Mohsin Khan in the squad, their overseas fast-bowling department lacked impact throughout the tournament.
Because of this, LSG may look for an experienced overseas pacer, and Kyle Jamieson could be a strong option. The tall New Zealand pacer can provide pace and valuable experience.
At the same time, Delhi Capitals need a quality spin-bowling all-rounder who can contribute in both departments. Shahbaz Ahmed could fit that role perfectly.
Delhi skipper Axar Patel had a below-par season by his standards. He scored 173 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 131.06 and picked up 11 wickets in 13 matches.
Over the last two seasons, Axar has not consistently delivered the performances expected from him.
As a result, adding Shahbaz Ahmed could strengthen Delhi’s spin department and provide extra depth in the batting lineup. Meanwhile, Jamieson could help improve Lucknow’s pace attack.
Therefore, a Kyle Jamieson-Shahbaz Ahmed trade could benefit both teams and address important weaknesses in their squads ahead of the IPL 2027 season.
Also Read: Rishabh Pant Was Forced Out Mid IPL 2026; Explosive Report Exposes LSG
Tristan Stubbs - Aiden Markram
Another interesting trade that could happen before IPL 2027 is between Tristan Stubbs and Aiden Markram.
Tristan Stubbs had a disappointing IPL 2026 season with Delhi Capitals.
Although the South African batter showed glimpses of his talent, he struggled to maintain consistency throughout the tournament. He scored 275 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate of 127.31, which was below expectations.
Because of his inconsistent performances, Delhi Capitals might consider releasing him. However, instead of letting him go outright, they could explore a trade with LSG.
In return, DC could target Aiden Markram. The experienced South African batter reportedly appeared frustrated after being used in different roles by LSG.
After opening the batting in several matches, he was later moved around the batting order as part of the team's experimentation.
Despite those challenges, Markram managed to score 231 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 138.32.
Notably, Markram brings plenty of international experience and is known for playing spin bowling well. In addition, he can contribute with the ball whenever required.
For LSG, bringing in Tristan Stubbs could strengthen their middle order and add firepower to the batting lineup.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals would gain a reliable top-order batter who can support KL Rahul and provide stability at the top.
Considering the needs of both teams, a Tristan Stubbs-Aiden Markram swap could be a smart move ahead of IPL 2027.
Also Read: "Shameful": Fans Livid With Pakistan Women's Lavish Party Amid T20 World Cup Exit



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