The IPL 2025 has not lacked in surprises. Initially, it was MS Dhoni batting at No. 9 – on two occasions – and now Rishabh Pant at No. 7. The match last night between Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals displayed a role reversal – Pant and KL Rahul, the captains of their previous franchises, found themselves at opposing ends, and while everyone focused on both to make a statement – only one player left the field with pride. Rahul remained not out with a half-century and led his team to victory, leaving Sanjiv Goenka in a difficult spot. Pant, on the other hand, was out for a duck, adding to his woes as LSG captain and batsman.

More significantly, it’s the images from the dugout that spoke volumes. Pant, who came out to bat in the 18th over, was eager to get an opportunity earlier. However, for reasons unknown, he was held back. His hand was wrapped, but that doesn’t seem like a valid excuse. Pant could have been omitted if the injury were serious, but since he was not, the skipper was believed to be fit enough. From the looks of it, Harbhajan Singh believes Pant received some information from the team management that didn’t sit well with the LSG captain. And the outcome? A two-ball duck, followed by a comprehensive eight-wicket defeat. After his wicket, Pant was seen engaged in an animated conversation with assistant coach Zaheer Khan, which did not reflect well according to commentators Suresh Raina and Anil Kumble.

“Why did Rishabh Pant bat at No. 7? It’s beyond my understanding. Let’s attempt to figure it out. Is Rishabh Pant batting at No. 7 warranted? Abdul Samad and Ayush Badoni batted ahead of him. Whose decision was that? It was either the team management’s or Pant’s. Pant, however, was furious. He appeared angry. It seemed as though he was informed of something that left him dissatisfied. His mood was off too,” Harbhajan stated on his YouTube channel.

“This is my perspective. Some conversation occurred regarding Rishabh Pant, which likely made him unhappy. We know Pant well. He is a good person who respects elders and seniors. But is this appropriate? If Pant is struggling with his form, would you drop him to No. 7? He is your captain. You send him for the toss. I did not agree with it. How can a team succeed if its captain is discontented? ”

Rishabh Pant has been disappointing in IPL 2025

Pant is facing a lot of criticism for his performance in the IPL 2025. Acquired for ₹27 crore – the highest amount ever spent on a player by a franchise – Pant has only scored 109 runs from nine matches, with a top score of 63. Repeatedly, his appearances with LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka have sparked speculation about whether everything is okay. However, the rumors were dispelled when the two showed up for the ISL final.

With five victories and four losses, not everything is lost for LSG just yet. They are level with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings at 10 points, but as the tournament progresses past halfway, the margin for error is becoming smaller.

Read Also: IPL Match Between SRH and MI Marks Respect for Pahalgam Victims—No Fireworks or Cheerleaders

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