Rishabh Pant has scored just 128 runs in 11 innings this season, with a strike rate of 99.22, marking his worst batting performance in an IPL season.
Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2025 Struggles: Experts Offer Insights and Solutions
Rishabh Pant’s performance in IPL 2025 has sparked concern, with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain failing to deliver his usual explosive innings. Despite being purchased for a record INR 27 crore during the IPL mega auction, Pant has had a disappointing season so far, scoring only 128 runs in 11 innings at a modest strike rate of 99.22. His latest low came in LSG’s 37-run loss to Punjab Kings, where he managed only 18 runs off 17 balls, contributing little to his team’s total.
Virender Sehwag, the former India cricketer, offered valuable advice to Pant, urging him to revisit his old IPL performances for a confidence boost. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Sehwag explained how subtle disruptions in a player’s routine can lead to a loss of form, sharing his own experience of struggling during 2006/07. Sehwag was dropped from the Indian team that year and was advised by Rahul Dravid to analyze his routine from his good run-scoring days. Sehwag believes that this can help recognize any inconsistencies in his approach.
Sehwag also suggested that Pant reach out to his idol, MS Dhoni, for guidance. Dhoni, known for his calm and composed nature, could offer Pant valuable insights into dealing with pressure and form issues. “If you feel negative, just pick up the phone and speak to Dhoni,” Sehwag said.
‘Rishabh doesn’t look his normal self’
Pollock, speaking during the English version of Cricbuzz’s post-match analysis of the LSG-PBKS game, speculated that Pant’s poor form might be linked to the absence of his Indian teammates. Reflecting on Pant’s struggles, Pollock suggested that might be missing the camaraderie and familiar dynamics with his fellow Indian players in the squad.
Pollock questioned whether Pant was feeling more comfortable around his teammates from India, as opposed to the international players in the LSG lineup. “Is he the kind of guy who is more of a homeboy, missing the company of fellow Indian players?” Pollock wondered. He further reflected on whether the absence of someone Pant connects with, who brings out his jovial side, could be contributing to his decline in form.
Pollock emphasized that despite all the theories, struggles seem to be mental, affecting his usual self. As LSG prepares for their next match against Royal Challengers Bangalore on May 9, it remains to be seen whether can regain his confidence and break free from this slump.
