Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 27: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has heaped praise on Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Rishabh Pant, crediting his sharp leadership and tactical acumen in steering the franchise through a competitive IPL 2025 season.

Despite a roster lacking marquee international bowlers, Pant has made smart use of his resources, helping LSG secure five wins from nine matches to sit sixth on the points table. The team faces Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in Sunday’s afternoon clash.

Speaking on Star Sports, Kaif highlighted Pant’s ability to get the best out of an inexperienced bowling unit. "Rishabh Pant has shown excellent captaincy this season. Working with young talents like Avesh Khan, a newcomer like Digvesh Rathi, and a replacement player like Shardul Thakur, he has managed to pull off tight victories," Kaif noted.

He added, "In one of the matches, Pant guided Avesh to defend just nine runs in the final over — a testament to his game sense and leadership under pressure. Winning close games without having a star bowler in your ranks shows the mark of a smart captain."

However, while Pant has impressed with his leadership, his personal batting form has been a concern. The dynamic left-hander has managed only 106 runs from nine games so far, including a lone knock of 63. If the trend continues, it would mark his lowest IPL run tally since his debut season in 2016 — falling short of the 200-run mark for the first time.

In contrast, Pant’s comeback season last year with Delhi Capitals was a standout, as he scored 446 runs in 13 games, including three half-centuries. LSG had secured Pant for a record ?27 crore at the auction, making him the most expensive player in IPL history — a deal that raised big expectations.
As the season heads into its critical phase, all eyes will be on Pant to reignite his batting form while continuing to guide Lucknow's playoff push.