Zaheer Khan has expressed his full support for Rishabh Pant, who has been struggling with form in IPL 2025. Despite Pant’s underwhelming performance with the bat, scoring only 110 runs in 10 matches, Khan praised the young skipper’s leadership qualities. He highlighted Pant’s efforts to ensure every player feels comfortable and supported within the team, emphasizing that his leadership has been “fantastic.” Zaheer also downplayed the pressure of Pant’s high price tag and stressed that form fluctuates in cricket. He confirmed that Pant will continue to lead the team and remains a crucial part of LSG’s plans moving forward.
Zaheer Khan Stands by Rishabh Pant, Praises Leadership Amidst Tough Times
Rishabh Pant’s form has been a major concern for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025, with the young skipper struggling to make an impact. In the team’s recent defeat to Mumbai Indians at Wankhede on April 27, Pant was dismissed for just four runs, adding to his woes in what has been a difficult season so far. With only 110 runs in 10 matches at a low average of 12.22 and strike rate of 98.21, Pant’s struggles have left many questioning his position. Despite this, LSG mentor Zaheer Khan has thrown his full support behind the struggling captain, praising his leadership skills and unwavering commitment to the team.
Zaheer made it clear that Rishabh Pant’s leadership qualities are not in doubt, emphasizing the effort he puts into ensuring every player in the squad feels supported and heard. “He has been fantastic as a leader,” Zaheer stated. “The way he has been taking efforts to make sure that each individual in the team is comfortable and the planning around the IPL has been spot on.” Zaheer also dismissed any concerns about the pressure of Rishabh Pant’s hefty INR 27 crore price tag, stating that it’s not the cause of his batting struggles.
While Pant’s form has been a concern, Zaheer reassured fans and critics alike that the team’s focus remains on the bigger picture. “You have to remember that in cricket, form changes. Some players will be in form, others may go through lean patches. That’s the nature of the game,” Zaheer explained. He reiterated that Pant would continue to lead the team and play a pivotal role in LSG’s quest to make the playoffs. “Rishabh Pant is the leader we have identified to take this team forward, and that won’t change,” Zaheer added confidently.
Zaheer also acknowledged the pressures of the tournament and the need for players to step up when it matters most. “In the back-end of the tournament, pressure is always high, but we are focused on finding that one big innings that can turn things around for Rishabh and the team,” he said. With the season progressing and the stakes getting higher, Zaheer believes that Pant’s resilience and leadership will ultimately lead to better performances, both from him and the team.
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