Rishabh Pant's struggles in IPL 2025 have reached a new low as the Lucknow Super Giants captain managed just 2 runs against the Mumbai Indians on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. This performance marks his third single-digit score in four matches this season, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Coming into bat at a promising position with LSG at 91 for 2 in the ninth over, Pant had the perfect opportunity to stabilize the innings. Openers Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram had already built a solid foundation, adding 76 runs in just seven overs. However, Pant's inability to convert this chance into a significant score has left many questioning his form and leadership.
Facing only six deliveries, Pant was dismissed by a clever slower ball from MI captain Hardik Pandya in the 11th over. Attempting to work the ball on the leg side, Pant instead produced a leading edge that was caught by substitute fielder Corbin Bosch, who executed a stunning diving catch at mid-off. This dismissal encapsulated Pant's ongoing struggles, with his scores this season now reading: 0 (6), 15 (15), 2 (5), and 2 (6).
The criticism of Pant's performance has been swift and harsh on social media, with many fans expressing their frustration. One user tweeted, "Rishabh Pant is now officially the biggest fraud in IPL history," highlighting the disappointment surrounding his form after being bought for a staggering INR 27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history.
Despite the mounting pressure, LSG mentor Zaheer Khan has come to Pant's defense, emphasizing the need for the team to support their captain. "We always have to find a way as he is our captain. Everyone has expectations from him, and I believe the way he has done well as a captain, he will also contribute as a player," Khan stated in a post-match press conference.
However, Khan did not shy away from criticizing the pitch conditions at home, which he felt did not favor LSG during their heavy defeat to the Punjab Kings. Chasing a target of 172, the Punjab side capitalized on a track that offered grip and variable bounce, ultimately winning by eight wickets. "What was a little disappointing for me here, considering it's a home game, is that it didn't look like a pitch that gave us any advantage," Khan remarked.
In the aftermath of Friday's match, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka also expressed his faith in Pant's leadership, stating, "His best leadership is yet to come." Goenka was seen in animated conversation with Pant following the loss to Punjab Kings, reminiscent of previous conversations with former captain KL Rahul during tough times. The franchise had built its team around Pant, and Goenka reiterated his belief in the young captain's potential.
As the season progresses, Pant's performance will be crucial for LSG, who currently sit in seventh place on the points table with just 2 points from four matches. The team has a mixed record so far, having won against Sunrisers Hyderabad but losing to Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings.
Rishabh Pant's IPL journey has been one of highs and lows. He made his debut in 2016 with Delhi Capitals, where he showcased his talent, notably scoring 684 runs in the 2018 season, which included his only IPL century. However, after a life-threatening accident in late 2022, Pant missed the entire 2023 season. His return in 2024 saw him score 446 runs in 13 innings, but the current season has proven challenging.
Comparisons are being drawn between Pant's struggles and the performances of other high-profile players in the league. Shreyas Iyer, for instance, has excelled with the bat for Punjab Kings, scoring 149 runs in just two matches, including an unbeaten 97, while Ajinkya Rahane has contributed significantly to Kolkata Knight Riders' success. These contrasting performances have put further pressure on Pant, who is expected to lead by example.
As the IPL 2025 season continues, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Rishabh Pant can turn his fortunes around. The upcoming matches will be pivotal not only for his individual performance but also for the Lucknow Super Giants' aspirations in the tournament.
In essence, Pant's current form raises questions about his ability to handle the pressure of captaincy while also delivering with the bat. With LSG's next matches on the horizon, all eyes will be on Pant to see if he can rise to the occasion and silence his critics.
