LSG Must Aid Rishabh Pant's Form, Warns Harbajan Singh
Lucknow, India – April 04, 2025 – Former Indian cricket legend, Harbajan Singh, has expressed concern over the ongoing poor form of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain, Rishabh Pant, and has urged the team management to find a solution quickly if they harbour ambitions of reaching the IPL 2025 playoffs. Pant's struggles have become a significant talking point following LSG's recent eight-wicket defeat to Punjab Kings.
Rishabh Pant's Disappointing Start
Rishabh Pant, who commanded a hefty price tag of Rs 27 crore, has not lived up to expectations so far in the ongoing IPL season. His scores of 0, 15, and 2 across three innings have raised questions about his form and the team's strategy. Harbajan Singh, in a recent analysis on his YouTube channel, emphasized that Pant’s quiet bat has been a “big blow” for LSG.
Harbajan Singh's Concerns and Recommendations
“Rishabh Pant wasn’t able to do anything significant. His bat has been quiet so far,” Harbajan stated. He believes LSG needs to actively address the situation, suggesting that the team management needs to work out a way to support the captain and help him regain his confidence and form. The former India spinner’s comment underlines the pressure on LSG to turn things around swiftly.
Context and Recent Performance
- Financial Investment: Pant's acquisition reflected the franchise's belief in his potential as a match-winning player and leader.
- Early Struggles: His campaign started with a two-ball duck against Delhi Capitals, highlighting the immediate challenges he faced.
- Powerplay Woes: Against Punjab Kings, LSG lost two wickets in the powerplay, leaving them in a precarious position at 32/3 when Pant walked in. He was dismissed for just 5 balls by Glenn Maxwell.
- Late-Order Recovery: Despite Pant's early exit, a late-order recovery orchestrated by Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, and Abdul Samad (who contributed a quickfire 27) helped LSG post a total of 171/7.
Broader Perspective: Pant’s International Form
Pant was a crucial member of the Indian team that clinched the T20 World Cup last year. However, he was included in the Champions Trophy squad but didn't feature in any matches, with KL Rahul being the preferred wicketkeeper. This lack of playing time may have contributed to his current form issues.
What's Next for LSG?
LSG now faces Mumbai Indians in their next fixture, scheduled for Friday. The team will be hoping to get back on the winning track and address Pant's form to strengthen their playoff ambitions. Shreayas Iyer and Prabhasimran Singh were credited with leading PBKS to victory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the significance of Rishabh Pant's poor form for LSG? A: His struggles impact the team's batting depth and overall performance, putting added pressure on other players and jeopardizing their playoff hopes.
Q: How much did LSG pay for Rishabh Pant? A: LSG acquired Rishabh Pant for a substantial Rs 27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history.
Q: What is Harbajan Singh’s recommendation for LSG? A: Harbajan urges LSG to actively support Pant, find a way to help him regain his form, and address the issue promptly.
Q: Who led PBKS to a dominant victory against LSG? A: Shreayas Iyer led PBKS to victory.