Rishabh Pant Faces Tough Start as LSG Captain Despite Huge IPL 2025 Price Tag

Rishabh Pant, the most expensive buy in IPL history at INR 27 crore, continues to struggle for form with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025. In 10 matches so far, Pant has scored just 110 runs, averaging a low 12.22 and striking at 98. Despite the heavy criticism, LSG mentor Zaheer Khan firmly backed the young captain, emphasizing his leadership skills and optimistic mindset.

Pant’s struggles deepened after he got out on his second ball against Mumbai Indians, attempting a risky reverse sweep that went straight to a fielder. However, Zaheer refused to attribute Pant’s failure to pressure, highlighting his long-standing relationship with the wicketkeeper-batter dating back to their days at Delhi Daredevils.

Zaheer Khan Defends Pant’s Captaincy Amid Mounting Pressure

Speaking after LSG’s 54-run defeat to Mumbai Indians, Zaheer praised Pant’s leadership qualities, saying, “He is ticking all the boxes as a leader. The middle-order depends on Rishabh, and I am confident the impact we expect from him will come.” Zaheer stressed that one breakthrough innings could turn Pant’s form around, urging patience from fans and critics alike.

He also recalled Pant’s positive attitude, noting, “He is very optimistic and positive. What happened in the last game is in the past; we are focusing on the future.”

LSG Look to Regain Momentum in Crucial Final Stretch

Despite back-to-back losses, LSG remains in contention for the playoffs with a 5-5 record. Zaheer encouraged the team to stay focused in the high-pressure final phase of the league. “The pressure will be high in the back-end of the tournament, but that’s the challenge,” he said.

LSG will now enjoy a week’s break before heading to Dharamsala, where they face another playoff contender, Punjab Kings. With their season hanging in the balance, Pant and his teammates must quickly rediscover their winning touch.

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