Rishabh Pant's IPL 2025 Challenge: Prove Himself to Revive T20I Career

12 days ago | 5 Views

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant has been urged to make a significant impact in IPL 2025 if he hopes to rejoin India's T20I squad. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that the left-handed batsman needs to rack up a lot of runs to strengthen his case for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup in 2026.

Pant was part of the Indian team that won the T20 World Cup in 2024, but he hasn't played many matches in the format since then. He also recently sat out during the ICC Men's Champions Trophy without getting any game time.

Chopra thinks Pant should aim to dominate the IPL 2025 season with LSG to create competition for players like Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill.

LSG's first match in the 18th edition of the IPL is set for March 24 against Delhi Capitals at the ACA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Pant was appointed as captain after being acquired for INR 27 crore.

"Rishabh Pant has a huge chance here. Right now, he’s not in the T20 team or even in their plans. It’s surprising that such a talented player isn’t getting consistent opportunities in T20s. This is your moment, man. Go out there and score runs that will make everyone take notice," Chopra mentioned on his YouTube channel.

"There’s also the question of where he’ll bat. There’s been talk about him opening since keepers are batting there. You don’t need to compete with Sanju Samson; you should carve out your own spot. No need to bat higher than No. 3 or No. 4. If you get a solid start, come in at No. 3, keep the three left-handers at four, five, and six, and go after every bowler," he added.

'Big chance for Pant'

The former Indian cricketer thinks Pant has a shot at showcasing his leadership skills. Last season, under Pant's captaincy, the Delhi Capitals didn't make it to the playoffs. Now, it’ll be interesting to see how he rallies the LSG team, which also missed out on the playoffs last year.

Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts, saying, "There are two key points. First, you need to push the team forward to gain recognition as a captain. Second, if you score runs, you can get back into the conversation for the T20I team. I'm still not sure if the current T20 squad will be the same for next year's World Cup. The selections for T20 will be quite fluid."

He continued, "This IPL is crucial for determining who advances and secures their spot again. I see a significant opportunity for Rishabh Pant as both a captain of a new franchise and as a batsman."

The IPL 2025 season kicks off on March 22, featuring the opening match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!