Rishabh Pant Struggles Continue as Lucknow Super Giants Face Defeat Against Punjab Kings

Rishabh Pant's Ongoing Challenges in IPL 2025

Rishabh Pant's difficult season in IPL 2025 persisted during the match against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, where he managed to score only 18 runs, contributing to Lucknow Super Giants' 37-run loss. As LSG aimed to chase down a target of 237, Pant entered the game early in the powerplay following Arshdeep Singh's initial breakthroughs. Expectations were high for the captain to stabilize the innings, but he struggled to find his rhythm.

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has advised Pant to revisit his past batting techniques from the IPL. In a discussion on a cricket platform, Sehwag emphasized that Pant should watch footage of his successful innings from earlier years to regain confidence.

“He should review videos of his past performances when he was scoring runs consistently. This can help him remember his approach and boost his confidence.”

Sehwag also noted that Pant seems to have strayed from his original batting style since returning from injury. He highlighted that even minor adjustments in a player's routine can significantly affect their performance.

“Often, players deviate from their established routines. The Rishabh Pant we are witnessing now is different from the one we knew before his injury.”

Pant's dismissal came while attempting to hit Azmatullah Omarzai in the eighth over, resulting in a mistimed shot. In a moment that encapsulated his struggles this season, his bat slipped from his grip and soared into the outfield, where Shashank Singh caught it.

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Sehwag suggested that Pant should reach out to someone he trusts for guidance, mentioning MS Dhoni as a potential mentor if Pant still views him that way.

“He can easily call anyone he trusts. If he feels mentally off, there are many cricketers who can assist him. If he considers Dhoni a role model, he should definitely consult him.”

Pant Remains Optimistic Despite LSG's Third Consecutive Loss

Following the defeat, Pant expressed that LSG still has a chance to qualify for the playoffs, but emphasized the need for immediate improvements. This season, he has accumulated only 128 runs in 11 matches, averaging 12.80 with a strike rate of 99.22.

“If we win our next three matches, we can still qualify, so the dream is alive. It’s crucial for our top order to perform well; they can’t always carry the team. We fell short chasing a high target, which was costly.”

While players like Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, and Nicholas Pooran have been instrumental in scoring for LSG, the middle-order has not been effective. Pant's struggles to either stabilize or accelerate during critical moments have raised concerns.

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The Lucknow Super Giants are set to face the top-ranked Royal Challengers Bengaluru at home on Friday, May 9. With only three matches remaining, they will not only need victories but also a strong performance from their captain.