Rishabh Pant’s Form Dips in IPL 2025; Experts Suggest Mental, Leadership Strain
Rishabh Pant, captain of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), is enduring a rough patch in IPL 2025. Despite entering the season as the league’s most expensive player ever, bought for ₹27 crore, the star wicketkeeper-batter has failed to live up to expectations. In 11 games, Pant has managed just 128 runs at an average of 12.80, with only a single half-century to his name.
His latest performance, an 18-run innings against Punjab Kings, reflected the larger struggles LSG has faced this season. The franchise suffered a 37-run defeat in that game, continuing their slide on the points table—they now sit seventh with only four wins from 11 matches.
Pant’s lack of form has drawn concern from several former cricketing greats. Australian legend Adam Gilchrist commented that Pant doesn’t seem to be enjoying the game as he once did.
“Normally, you see him full of life—smiling, joking, playing freely. That spark just isn’t there this season. Maybe it’s the burden of leadership or the pressure from his hefty price tag. Whatever it is, he doesn’t seem himself,” Gilchrist observed during a discussion on Cricbuzz.
He added that Pant’s shot selection and body language suggest he’s missing his usual confidence and joy on the field. “He’s usually one of the most exciting cricketers to watch, but something’s off,” Gilchrist said.
Echoing the concern, former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock speculated that Pant may be missing familiar company in the dressing room. “He might be someone who thrives around his core group—Indian players he’s comfortable with. Right now, he’s surrounded by mostly overseas batters, and maybe that’s making a difference,” Pollock noted.
Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag offered a piece of advice, urging Pant to reach out to his role model. “He’s got a phone. If things aren’t going well mentally, there’s nothing wrong with talking to someone. Dhoni is his idol—why not call and have a chat? It might just help ease his mind,” Sehwag suggested.
As the season nears its crucial final stages, fans and analysts alike are hoping Pant can rediscover his rhythm—not just for LSG’s fortunes, but for the joy he brings to cricket fans around the world.