Rishabh Pant’s decision to bat at No. 7 in Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) match against Delhi Capitals (DC) has sparked heavy criticism, with former India cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara stating that Pant should not try to be MS Dhoni. The LSG skipper managed just two balls before getting dismissed for a duck in a move that many believe cost the team crucial runs.
“He’s Not Dhoni” – Pujara on Pant’s Role
Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Pujara said Pant is better suited to batting in the middle overs and trying to replicate Dhoni’s role as a finisher is not natural for him. “He should be batting between overs 6 to 15. He’s trying to do what Dhoni does, but he’s nowhere near that. He’s not a finisher,” Pujara stated bluntly.
Pant’s Sliding Batting Position Raises Eyebrows
Pant sent Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, and David Miller ahead of him in the batting order, only to walk in at No. 7. Former England cricketer Nick Knight also questioned the move, especially considering Pant is the captain.
“Your captain shouldn’t be sliding down the order,” Knight said. “It doesn’t look right. He’s the one who has to lead from the front. If he keeps going lower when the team needs him, that’s not a good sign.”
Poor IPL 2025 Form Adds to Pressure
Pant’s form in IPL 2025 has been disappointing. In nine innings, he has only one score above 50 and averages just 13.00, with a strike rate of 96.36. His performance against DC highlighted his struggles, as he tried an uncharacteristic reverse lap and was bowled.
Leadership and Confidence Under Scrutiny
With Pant being the most expensive player in IPL history, expectations are naturally high. However, his inconsistent performance and questionable decisions as captain have led many to believe that he must reassess both his position in the batting lineup and his approach.
As the tournament enters its business end, all eyes will be on Pant—whether he returns to form and leads from the front, or continues to buckle under pressure.
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