IPL 2024 Trade Update: Devdutt Padikkal Moves to Lucknow Super Giants; Avesh Khan Transferred to Rajasthan Royals - Report

Avesh Khan has reportedly been involved in a direct swap, heading to the Rajasthan Royals, while opening batter Devdutt Padikkal is set to join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), according to a report on ESPNCricinfo. Although the trade was agreed upon by the franchises in the past week, final approval from the BCCI is expected this week.

The Lucknow Super Giants acquired Avesh Khan for INR 10 crore, while Devdutt Padikkal’s services were secured by the Rajasthan Royals for INR 7.75 crore. Both players were retained by their respective franchises.

For Padikkal, this move marks his third IPL franchise, having initially started with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Over two seasons with the Royals, he amassed 637 runs at an average of 23.59 and a strike rate of 125.88, with three fifties. Across his IPL career spanning 92 games, Padikkal has accumulated 2,768 runs, showcasing 17 fifties and three centuries.

Similarly, Avesh Khan, representing his third IPL franchise, previously played for the Delhi Capitals (DC) and emerged as the second-highest wicket-taker in IPL 2021 with 24 scalps at an average of 18.75. In IPL 2022, he concluded as the highest wicket-taker for LSG. Currently part of India’s T20I squad for the home series against Australia, Avesh is known for his impactful performances.

This trade stands as the second ahead of IPL 2024, following Romario Shepherd’s transfer to Mumbai Indians (MI) from LSG. The deadline for franchises to announce their retention list is November 26, with the player auction scheduled for December 19 in Dubai.