Zaheer Khan Backs Rishabh Pant to Overcome IPL 2025 Struggles with ‘Something Clicking’
In a season where runs have been hard to come by for Rishabh Pant, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mentor Zaheer Khan has thrown his weight behind the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, expressing unwavering confidence in Pant’s ability to turn his IPL 2025 campaign around. Pant, who made headlines as the most expensive player in IPL history with a staggering Rs 27 crore price tag, has struggled to find his rhythm, managing just 110 runs in 10 matches with a worrying streak of six single-digit scores.
Sunday’s clash against Mumbai Indians at the iconic Wankhede Stadium was another low point for Pant, as he fell for a mere four runs while attempting an audacious reverse sweep against part-time spinner Will Jacks. The 54-run defeat further dented LSG’s playoff aspirations, but Zaheer remains optimistic about Pant’s dual role as a leader and impact batter. “I wouldn’t relate his struggles to the price tag or any external pressure. He is a natural leader, and I can vouch for his fantastic contribution in that role,” Zaheer asserted in the post-match press conference.
Diving deeper into Pant’s form, Zaheer emphasized that the team’s middle order heavily relies on the 27-year-old’s explosive batting. “As a batter, the impact we expect from Rishabh will come. It’s just about something clicking,” he said, hinting at a potential turning point. Pant’s career IPL stats—3,284 runs at a strike rate of 148.82 over 108 matches—underline his pedigree, making his current slump an anomaly rather than a norm. Zaheer also praised Pant’s positive mindset, noting, “What happened in the last game is gone. He’s very optimistic, and it’s about continuing with that approach.”
LSG have firmly identified Pant as the cornerstone of their future, with Zaheer confirming, “There’s no doubt that Rishabh is the leader who will take this team forward.” This vote of confidence comes at a critical juncture for the franchise, which sits sixth on the points table with five wins and five losses. With a crucial one-week break before their next fixture against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, Zaheer urged his squad to regroup and rejuvenate. “It’s about finding that spark and avoiding reliance on net run rate for playoff qualification,” he added.
As the IPL 2025 season intensifies, all eyes will be on Pant to rediscover the form that made him a household name. Zaheer’s backing serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, belief and patience can pave the way for a spectacular comeback. Can Rishabh Pant ignite the spark LSG so desperately needs? Only time will tell, but for now, the faith of a cricketing legend like Zaheer Khan stands firmly behind him.