Rishabh Pant’s commitment to leading the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has created a wave of excitement as he steps into the role of captain for the upcoming IPL 2025 season.
The wicketkeeper-batter, who was bought for a record Rs 27 crore during the mega auction last year, has pledged to give his “200 per cent” in terms of leading the team towards their maiden championship victory.
Pant expressed his gratitude towards the LSG management for placing their trust in him. He stated during his unveiling press conference in Kolkata, “Thank you to the LSG family for showing faith in me. I will give my 200% and that’s my commitment to you.”
His words reflected the passion and determination he feels to make the most of this new opportunity. The 25-year-old cricketer further emphasized his excitement for a fresh start and an energetic approach to his leadership, adding, “Looking forward to having a new beginning with new energy and just having a blast out there, and having lots of fun.”
Pant’s appointment marks a new chapter for LSG, who have yet to win the IPL trophy. He becomes the franchise’s fourth captain, following in the footsteps of KL Rahul, Nicholas Pooran, and Krunal Pandya.
Pant takes over from Rahul, who captained the team since 2022 but moved to Delhi Capitals (DC) after the 2024 auction. This marks a return to captaincy for Pant, who previously led Delhi Capitals from 2021 to 2024, although he missed the 2023 season due to injuries from a serious car accident in December 2022.
Pant’s appointment as LSG’s captain has stirred optimism within the franchise. Principal team owner Sanjiv Goenka, who was present at the unveiling, spoke highly of Pant’s leadership qualities, comparing him to some of the most successful captains in IPL history.
Goenka expressed his belief that Pant could emerge as one of the best captains the IPL has ever seen, following in the footsteps of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. “My thinking was that time will prove that he’s not only the most expensive player in IPL, but he’s going to be the best player in IPL,” Goenka said.
He went on to praise Pant’s leadership style, describing it as relaxed yet effective, with an infectious hunger and energy. “I see a born leader in Rishabh Pant. He will probably be the best captain IPL has ever seen,” Goenka added confidently.
Pant’s leadership qualities and his infectious personality have earned him widespread admiration, with many expecting him to make a significant impact on LSG’s fortunes in IPL 2025. Goenka’s optimistic prediction aligns with the growing anticipation surrounding Pant’s role as captain.
“People now say Mahi and Rohit are IPL’s most successful captains. Mark my words, after 10-12 years, it will be Mahi, Rohit, and Pant,” Goenka concluded.
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