Zaheer Khan Backs Rishabh Pant Amid Struggles
Former Indian bowler and Lucknow Super Giants mentor, Zaheer Khan, has come to the defense of wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, emphasizing that he will soon regain his form. Pant has faced a tough phase in his career, scoring just 110 runs in nine innings at an average of 12.
Despite his struggles, Pant expressed that he is not overly worried about his performance. Zaheer also dismissed concerns that the pressure from his hefty price tag—Rs 27 crore, the highest in IPL history—might be affecting him.
In recent matches, Pant has appeared low on confidence, often trying to score runs too quickly. In IPL 2025, besides a fifty against Chennai Super Kings, he has not crossed 25 runs in eight other innings.
Zaheer stated, "I wouldn’t relate his struggles to the pressure. He has been an excellent leader and is doing well to ensure that everyone in the team feels supported." After LSG’s disappointing 54-run loss to Mumbai Indians, he praised Pant’s leadership qualities.
Pant had a chance to guide his team after they lost two key batsmen early on in their innings against MI. However, in an attempt to play a risky reverse sweep, Pant was out on the second ball he faced, contributing to LSG’s total of 162 all out.
Recently, Pant returned to the No. 4 batting position after having batted at No. 7 in a previous match, a decision that drew some criticism. Despite these changes, he has yet to find his rhythm.
"It’s important to focus on the future," Zaheer remarked. "Rishabh is an optimistic person, and we are supporting him."
Zaheer reaffirmed Pant’s importance to the team and expressed confidence that he will soon regain his batting form. "Rishabh is our leader who will guide this team forward. Every player goes through ups and downs; we just need to find that spark," he added.
With their recent loss, LSG has dropped to sixth in the points table, facing pressure to improve as they approach the back end of the tournament. Zaheer is hopeful that a week-long break before their next match in Dharamsala will help the team regroup.
"We’ve discussed the importance of taking this time to recharge," he said. "A few players are heading there early to enjoy the nice weather before our next game. It’s about finding the right individuals who can make a difference."
