Rishabh Pant To GT, Jos Buttler To LSG: What Is The Probability Of This IPL Trade?

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Rishabh Pant and Jos Buttler [Source: @riseup_pant17, @thecricketgully/x.com]Rishabh Pant and Jos Buttler [Source: @riseup_pant17, @thecricketgully/x.com]

The IPL 2026 trade window has opened the door to potentially seismic shifts in franchise compositions, with several marquee players already generating significant speculation. Among the most intriguing possibilities is a blockbuster swap involving two of cricket's most explosive wicketkeeper-batters of modern times: Jos Buttler and Rishabh Pant.

Rishabh Pant's record-breaking ₹27 crore acquisition by LSG yielded disappointing returns in 2025, while Gujarat Titans may be questioning whether Butter's ₹15.75 crore investment aligns with their long-term strategic vision. These circumstances create a unique opportunity for a high-profile exchange.

Trade Feasibility and Mechanics

With the trade window open until the IPL 2026 mini auction, both players can be traded once between seasons, requiring mutual consent and maintaining their current salaries at new franchises.

The major hurdle is the ₹11.25 crore salary differential. GT would need to provide cash compensation to LSG or include additional players to balance the deal, as they would be acquiring the more expensive player.

Why Gujarat Titans Should Consider Rishabh Pant

Despite Jos Buttler's solid contributions in IPL 2025, GT;s interest in this trade centres on long-term strategic planning. Acquiring Pant significantly strengthens their Indian batting core - a crucial factor for team balance and auction flexibility. His aggressive left-handed batting provides a different dimension to their middle order.

The trade would free up an overseas slot for GT to acquire other international talents, though GT would need to absorb the additional ₹11.25 crore salary commitment.

With Buttler at 34 and GT building for the future, capitalising on his current high value while securing a generational India talent makes compelling business sense.

LSG's Compelling Case

For LSG, the math is straightforward - Pant's ₹27 crore investment yielded disappointing returns in IPL 2025. Trading him would create a massive salary cap relief while acquiring one of IPL's most successful overseas batters.

Buttler brings proven opening stability and explosive match-winning capability that LSG desperately needs. His IPL track record offers immediate impact compared to Pant's inconsistent performances.

Deal Structure Options

The most practical structure involves GT sending Buttler plus ₹8-10 crore cash to LSG for Pant. This compensates LSG for taking the salary reduction while GT secures their target player. Alternatively, GT could include promising young players to balance the ₹11.25 crore value gap without pure cash outlay.

Market Reality Check

Current trade rumours involving Sanju Samson and other marquee players suggest franchises are willing to make bold moves. Both GT and LSG might be looking to rejuvenate their team ahead of the next season.

However, the deal's complexity and both players' marquee status present execution challenges. GT might prefer developing young Indian talent over absorbing Pant's massive salary, while LSG could target multiple quality players instead of one expensive acquisition.

Verdict: This trade has a moderate probability (45%) if both franchises prioritise strategic restructuring over maintaining the status quo. The financial gap requires creative structuring, but the strategic logic for both teams is compelling enough to warrant serious consideration.