Rishabh Pant Reflects on LSG's Challenging IPL Season

In a candid reflection, Rishabh Pant, captain of Lucknow Super Giants, discusses the hurdles faced during the IPL 2025 season, including injuries and team dynamics. Despite the challenges, he emphasizes the team's batting strength and praises rookie leg-spinner Digvesh Rathi. As LSG's playoff hopes fade, Pant remains focused on the positives and the need for continuous improvement. With two matches left, the team is currently positioned seventh, having lost four consecutive games. Read on to discover more about Pant's insights and the team's future outlook.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2025, 09:46 IST

Rishabh Pant Discusses LSG's Struggles in IPL

Rishabh Pant, the captain of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), acknowledged that injuries and unfilled positions hindered what could have been a remarkable IPL season for the team.

Following a six-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad that eliminated LSG from playoff contention, Pant openly addressed the difficulties his squad encountered during the 2025 season.

“It definitely had the potential to be one of our best seasons. However, we faced numerous gaps and injuries, and as a team, we chose not to dwell on it. Yet, it became increasingly challenging to address those gaps,” Pant stated in the post-match discussion.

He emphasized that the franchise had well-thought-out strategies during the auction, particularly concerning their bowling lineup, but admitted that the execution did not align with their expectations.

“Our auction strategy was solid, and if we had maintained the same bowling... but that's cricket; sometimes things work out, and sometimes they don't. We take pride in our performance and focus on the positives rather than the negatives,” he added.

Rishabh Pant, who struggled with his batting this season, highlighted that the team's batting strength remains a significant asset as they look ahead.

“Our batting lineup is robust, and we possess ample firepower, which is the biggest takeaway from this season,” he remarked.

He recognized that LSG's performance declined in the latter part of the tournament, which ultimately cost them a chance to secure a top-four finish.

“We had a strong start, but as the season progressed, it became increasingly difficult to keep pace with the leading teams,” he noted.

One of the bright spots for LSG this season was rookie leg-spinner Digvesh Rathi. Pant praised the young talent, saying:

“Rathi has performed admirably in his debut season. His bowling has been a positive aspect for us. However, continuous improvement is essential to excel in future seasons,” he stated.

Currently, LSG sits in seventh place with five victories out of twelve matches, having lost four consecutive games, with two matches remaining in the season.