Star Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has finally spoken out about his departure from the Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the much-anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction. Contrary to rumors, Pant confirmed that his exit from the Delhi-based franchise was not related to any issues over his retention fee.

Pant, who is currently preparing for India's five-match Test series against Australia, made this statement after cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar suggested that a retention fee disagreement may have been the reason behind Pant’s split with Delhi Capitals.

Gavaskar had shared his views during a Star Sports interview, saying, "What I feel is Delhi Capitals would want Rishabh Pant back in their squad. Sometimes, when a player has to be retained, there are talks between the franchise and players over the fees, as expected. As some of the players who have been retained by their franchises, they have gone for more than what the No. 1 retention fee deduction would be. So clearly, I think there may be some disagreement there. But, my feeling is Delhi would want Rishabh Pant back."

In response to these claims, Pant took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to clear the air. He stated, "My retention wasn’t about the money for sure that I can say."

Despite parting ways with the franchise he once led, Pant’s clarification indicates that the decision was not influenced by financial negotiations, refuting rumors of any disagreement between him and Delhi Capitals. All eyes are now on the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction, where Pant is expected to attract significant bids.