Devender sharma

Abadi Al Johar Arena: After India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, getting secured by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a whopping Rs 27 crore, his childhood coach Devender Sharma expressed delight saying that 'it's a proud moment for me.'

Former Delhi Capitals captain Pant was sold to LSG for Rs 27 crore, the highest-ever bid in the history of the tournament at the Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah on Sunday. Pant’s bid surpassed former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 winning captain Shreyas Iyer, who was sold to Punjab Kings for a whopping Rs 26.75 crore earlier in the day.

Pant’s childhood coach, Devender Sharma, couldn’t hide his pride as he spoke to IANS about the momentous occasion. "He has become a star player now, and seeing him as the highest-paid cricketer in IPL history is a proud moment for me. He scored a century against Sri Lanka and another against South Africa. Just last week, he met me before heading off on the Australia tour. He spent a lot of time with me, discussing both the IPL and the tour to Australia. I hope he helps India win the Test series in Australia, just like they did last time, and performs brilliantly in the IPL as well. As you all know, LSG bought him for the highest-ever amount in IPL history. I hope he leads the team to victory. I already have two other players from my training—Ayush Badoni and another one—so this is a proud moment for me."