Rishabh Pant’s struggle in the ongoing IPL 2025 has become a talking point across the cricketing world. With just 128 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 99.22, Pant is enduring his worst IPL season since his debut in 2016, and legends like Virender Sehwag and Shaun Pollock have weighed in on his alarming dip in form.
Sehwag: “Call Dhoni, Your Role Model”
During a post-match discussion after Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) 37-run loss to Punjab Kings, Sehwag expressed concern and offered a heartfelt solution for Pant’s struggles.
“Rishabh should go back and watch his old IPL batting clips. That will help restore his confidence,” Sehwag said.
“Sometimes when our routine changes, the runs dry up. In 2006/07, I faced the same and Rahul Dravid advised me to revisit what worked for me.”
Sehwag then made a clear suggestion:
“He has a phone. All he has to do is call someone. MS Dhoni is his role model – a call to him could really help lighten his mood and perspective.”
Shaun Pollock Offers a Different Angle
Former South African captain Shaun Pollock had his own theory, highlighting the lack of familiar Indian teammates around Pant in the LSG squad as a possible factor behind the slump.
“Maybe he misses that bond with his Indian teammates. He’s around international players but may lack that one mate who brings out his best and keeps him mentally light,” Pollock suggested on Cricbuzz.
Big Pressure After Big Price Tag
Pant was bought for INR 27 crore in the mega auction held in Jeddah last year — a record sum — adding further pressure to deliver. However, his underwhelming form has seen LSG struggle in key moments. In their latest match, Pant scored just 18 off 17 balls before being dismissed in a crucial chase.
What’s Next for Pant and LSG?
LSG will play their next match at home against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 9. With playoff qualification on the line, fans and analysts will watch closely to see if Pant can bounce back and find his rhythm in time to help his team.
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