Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant expressed that focusing solely on his batting form during the IPL 2025 is “not the right thing to do,” following the team’s recent 54-run defeat to Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. This marks LSG’s third loss in their last four outings.
Pant was dismissed cheaply, playing a reverse sweep and scoring just 4 runs off 2 balls in pursuit of a daunting 215-run target. This season, his batting stats read 110 runs from nine innings, with an average of 12.22 and a strike rate of 98.21. Despite being shuffled in the batting order from opener to number 4 and even number 7, Pant is yet to find form.
“It’s about keeping it very simple,” Pant remarked post-match. “When things aren’t swinging your way, doubting yourself isn’t helpful. It’s crucial to remember cricket is a team sport, and while individual performances matter, isolating one player isn’t the solution.”
LSG’s mentor Zaheer Khan backed Pant, highlighting his leadership qualities. “As a leader, he’s been exceptional. He ensures team members are comfortable, and planning for matches is spot on,” Khan stated. “His batting is pivotal for our middle order, and I believe he’ll deliver impactful performances soon.”
Reflecting on Pant’s recent dismissals, experts Sanjay Bangar and Wasim Jaffer analysed his approach on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut. Bangar noted, “When Pant’s in good form, he plays much straighter. Recently, he’s been caught behind, attempting sweeps and laps. Sometimes, playing the percentages helps—focusing more on hitting straight.”
Jaffer added, “Pant should have more faith in playing straight. Those extravagant shots can look unwise when they fail. Opponents have identified his vulnerability outside off stump.”
As Pant works on his form, both supporters and critics await his return to the free-flowing run-scoring capability he’s known for, holding onto the promise of a resurgence that can shift the tides for LSG this season.
