Gilchrist Slams Rishabh Pant’s Struggles at LSG: ‘He’s Missing the Spark’

Former Australian great Adam Gilchrist has raised concerns over Rishabh Pant’s dismal run in IPL 2025, suggesting the wicketkeeper-batter is buckling under the weight of expectations after joining the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a record INR 27 crore.

Pant, who returned to top-tier cricket this season after a long injury layoff, has failed to fire with the bat. He has scored just 128 runs from 11 matches at a poor average of 12.80 and a strike rate of 99.22. On Sunday, Pant managed only 18 off 17 deliveries in a crushing 37-run defeat against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala.

Gilchrist: ‘The Spark Is Missing’

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Gilchrist didn’t hold back his views. “Watching him, you always feel he enjoys his cricket. But that spark seems to be missing this season. He doesn’t look like the Rishabh Pant we know — jovial, carefree, and expressive. Maybe it’s the pressure of captaincy, or perhaps the massive price tag, but something’s definitely off,” he said.

Gilchrist also pointed out a noticeable change in Pant’s body language. “He is a certain personality; he has a vibrant body language. But I don’t see that now,” he added.

Captaincy Burden and Batting Blues

LSG appointed Pant as captain ahead of IPL 2025 after snatching him in the mega auction. Many saw him as a marquee signing who could turn the franchise into serious contenders. But Pant’s underwhelming form and inconsistent leadership have left fans disappointed and critics vocal.

The southpaw has crossed the 50-run mark just once — a half-century against Chennai Super Kings — which still resulted in a loss. He also briefly opened the innings in Marsh’s absence but failed to make the most of the opportunity.

Gilchrist lamented the lack of balance in Pant’s game. “There used to be a happy balance in his strokeplay — bold yet calculated. Now it feels forced. His natural instincts aren’t flowing, and that’s affecting his game,” he observed.

LSG’s Playoff Hopes in Danger

With the loss against Punjab Kings, LSG have dropped to seventh in the IPL 2025 points table. They now face a must-win scenario in their remaining three games to stand any chance of qualifying for the playoffs.

Fans grew increasingly frustrated after Pant’s bat flew out of his hand during a failed shot, leading to another strange dismissal. The moment quickly went viral, symbolizing his season-long woes.

Unless Pant can turn his form around quickly, the Super Giants could be heading toward an early exit — and Pant’s leadership might come under greater scrutiny.

Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram