Rishabh pant‘s dismal Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign hit a new low on May 19 at the Ekana Stadium, where he was dismissed for just 7 runs off 6 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad. This marked his seventh single-digit score in eleven innings, reflecting a deeply concerning run of form. Pant’s lean patch has placed a massive burden on the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)who continue to fight for a playoff berth. Despite carrying the weight of expectations as the most expensive player in IPL history, Pant has been unable to live up to the billing.

Sensational Eshan Malinga grab adds to Rishabh Pant’s list of failures

Pant’s latest dismissal was symbolic of the season he’s endured. On the final ball of the 12th over, Eshan Malinga bowled a deceptive slower yorker on leg stump. Pant, attempting to defend it gently, only managed to chip it back toward the bowler. Malinga, in a stunning display of athleticism, dived to his left in his follow-through to take a reflex catch inches off the ground, completing an exceptional return grab. The dismissal left Pant visibly dejected and capped yet another short-lived stay at the crease. It encapsulated the mental and technical challenges the LSG skipper has faced this season, where even his softest touches have turned into dismissals.

INR 27 crore investment by Lucknow Super Giants turns into a season of regret

Pant was acquired by LSG for a record-breaking INR 27 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, making him the most expensive buy in the tournament’s history. The franchise hoped that his dynamic stroke play and leadership could lift their campaign, but the reality has been far from expectations. With just 135 runs at an average of 12.22, the southpaw has failed to anchor or accelerate, often falling early and cheaply. His struggles have had a ripple effect on the team’s middle-order stability and scoring momentum. LSG, currently clinging to seventh place, are still mathematically alive in the playoff race, but Pant’s prolonged slump has become one of their biggest roadblocks. Unless a miraculous turnaround arrives in the final league games, this may be remembered as Pant’s most forgettable IPL season yet.

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