Despite a poor run of form with the bat in IPL 2025, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant has found strong support in team mentor Zaheer Khan, who emphasized the wicketkeeper-batter’s leadership and character amidst growing criticism.
PANT’S STRUGGLES AFTER RECORD-BREAKING IPL DEAL
Rishabh Pant, who became the most expensive player in IPL history after being picked up for a staggering INR 27 crore by LSG during the 2025 auction, has yet to justify the price tag. In 10 matches this season, he has managed just 110 runs at an average of 12.22 and a strike rate below 100 a sharp contrast to his previous aggressive batting style.
The criticism peaked after a disappointing dismissal against Mumbai Indians, where Pant fell on his second ball attempting a reverse-sweep that was comfortably caught. The incident highlighted his ongoing struggles and added to the scrutiny around his dual role as captain and key middle-order batter.
ZAHEER BACKS PANT’S LEADERSHIP AND OPTIMISM
Despite the disappointing returns, former India pacer and current LSG mentor Zaheer Khan strongly defended Pant’s position and temperament. Speaking at the post-match press conference following a 54-run loss to MI, Zaheer expressed confidence in Pant’s leadership.
> “I wouldn’t relate his form to pressure. He has the kind of personality that doesn’t dwell on setbacks. As a leader, he’s been fantastic, and I can vouch for that,” Zaheer said. “It’s just about something clicking. As a batter, he is vital to the middle-order, and I am confident he’ll deliver the impact we’re looking for.”
Having shared the dressing room with Pant during the Delhi Daredevils days in 2016, Zaheer noted that the southpaw’s positive mindset remains unchanged.
> “What happened in the last game is in the past. He’s an optimistic and upbeat individual. Our job is to continue backing that energy.”
CALLS FOR RESPONSIBILITY AMID BATTING ORDER CRITICISM
Pant has also faced questions about his decision-making — particularly his tendency to demote himself in the batting order. While many have called on him to shoulder more responsibility during crunch moments, Zaheer focused instead on Pant’s strategic leadership.
> “We’ve identified Rishabh as the leader who will take this team forward. There is absolutely no doubt in that decision,” Zaheer asserted.
FOCUS SHIFTS TO PLAYOFF PUSH IN FINAL FOUR MATCHES
With five wins and five losses, LSG remain firmly in the hunt for a playoff spot, but recent back-to-back defeats have increased the pressure on the team. Zaheer emphasized the importance of regrouping during the one-week break before their next clash against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala.
> “The back-end of the tournament is always crucial. We know the pressure will be high, and now it’s about finding that one spark — that one innings which can change everything,” Zaheer concluded.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR LSG?
The Lucknow Super Giants will look to revive their campaign and break the losing streak when they face fellow playoff contenders Punjab Kings next week. All eyes will be on Rishabh Pant — not just as a leader but as a batter who needs to rediscover his form at a critical juncture in the season.
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