Navjot Singh Sidhu Critiques Rishabh Pant's Performance in IPL 2023
Sidhu's Insights on Pant's Struggles
On Thursday, former Indian opener Navjot Singh Sidhu expressed concerns regarding Rishabh Pant's approach at the crease, suggesting that he is not making bowlers work for his wicket. This issue has been exacerbating the Lucknow Super Giants' challenges during the ongoing IPL season.
Pant's performance has been notably erratic this season, with only one significant innings of 68 not out against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Currently, the LSG finds itself in seventh place on the points table, largely due to the underwhelming performance of their top-order batsmen.
During a discussion on Star Sports, Sidhu stated, 'There is a lot of introspection needed. The issues have been ongoing, particularly with the top order failing to deliver. They have relied heavily on their top three, but the results have been lacking. Players like Markram, Pooran, Marsh, and Rishabh Pant possess great potential, yet the necessary partnerships are absent.'
'Even a 50-run partnership at the top has been a rarity. I believe bowlers are not dismissing Rishabh; he is often getting himself out. He has the skill and capability, and if he allows himself some time, he can turn his form around. Right now, both their batting and bowling units appear to be in a slump,' Sidhu added.
In a recent match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Pant was dismissed for just 1 run, contributing to a five-wicket loss.
As the captain of LSG, Pant has faced difficulties in maintaining consistency, accumulating only 104 runs across five matches with an average of 26.00 and a strike rate of 122.35.
In contrast, Virat Kohli from RCB showcased his prowess by leading the chase with a steady innings, continuing his impressive form. Sidhu praised Kohli's relentless pursuit of runs, even after nearly two decades in top-tier cricket.
'Virat Kohli, even at 20 percent, surpasses most players at full capacity. That’s the level of impact he has. Despite not being in peak physical condition, he followed up his previous fifty with another authoritative display,' Sidhu remarked.
'His ability to dominate bowlers like Mohammed Shami was remarkable, as he played elegant drives over cover and executed fluent pulls and cuts. The time he takes to play those shots, even after 18-19 years at the elite level, underscores why he remains a vital asset to the IPL,' he concluded.