In an explosive moment during Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) match against Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2025, Rishabh Pant showed his frustration after being sent in to bat at No.7, much later than expected. Pant, who was in the dugout as his team collapsed, appeared visibly upset and had an animated conversation with LSG mentor Zaheer Khan. The incident unfolded after Nicholas Pooran’s dismissal in the 12th over when most expected Pant to walk out to bat. However, Abdul Samad was sent in ahead of him, followed by David Miller and Ayush Badoni, which raised eyebrows.
Pant finally walked in at No.7 with just two balls left in the innings, but he couldn’t make an impact, getting out for a duck after a failed attempt at a reverse lap shot. His reaction to the dismissal and the situation was telling, and it was clear that Pant was frustrated by his batting position.
The Frustration Unfolds
Former cricketers Anil Kumble and Suresh Raina commented on the situation, with Kumble expressing that Pant’s anger seemed to be more about the batting order than the dismissal itself. Kumble noted that Pant likely felt wronged by being sent so late, as he is a key player and expected to be given more responsibility.
Suresh Raina added that Pant seemed to have been vocal about the issue with Zaheer Khan, saying, “I told you, send me in,” indicating his frustration with the decision.
Pant, in the post-match interview, reflected on the need to rethink their batting approach. He mentioned that the team had aimed to capitalise on the wicket, but things didn’t go according to plan. LSG’s batting woes were evident as they ended up with just 159/6, despite a strong opening partnership. DC chased down the target in just 17.5 overs with half-centuries from KL Rahul and Abishek Proel.
A Day to Forget for LSG
Despite a promising start with an 87-run opening partnership, LSG’s batting faltered as the middle-order failed to build on the foundation. Pant’s frustration highlighted the larger issue with LSG’s inconsistent batting strategy. After the match, Pant admitted that the team would need to reconsider their batting approach and find the best combination going forward.
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