7 Strategic Mistakes Rishabh Pant Made in the IPL 2025 That Cost LSG the Match Against DC

Introduction

In a nail-biting encounter of IPL 2025, Rishabh Pant’s captaincy debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ended in a dramatic one-wicket loss to Delhi Capitals (DC). Despite setting a formidable target of 210, LSG seemed in control until a sensational innings by Ashutosh Sharma tipped the scales in DC’s favor.

Critical Moments in the Match

LSG managed to reduce DC to a precarious 65/5, but a game-changing performance by Ashutosh Sharma ultimately led DC to victory. The pivotal moment came in the final over when Pant missed a crucial stumping chance against tail-ender Mohit Sharma, who then passed the strike to Ashutosh. Seizing the opportunity, Ashutosh smashed a decisive six that clinched the match for DC.

Expert Analysis on Pant’s Captaincy

Amit Mishra’s Perspective

Amit Mishra pointed out that the absence of key bowlers due to injuries significantly weakened LSG’s bowling attack. The injuries to Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Akash Deep disrupted the team’s balance, which Mishra believes played a crucial role in the defeat.

Virender Sehwag’s Sharp Critique

Virender Sehwag criticized Pant’s handling of the match, highlighting that effective captaincy should have compensated for the absence of key players. Sehwag emphasized that the responsibility to steer the team under pressure squarely fell on Pant’s shoulders, accusing him of missing crucial tactical opportunities to seal the game.

Conclusion

This match serves as a stern reminder of the pressures and responsibilities of captaincy, especially in tightly contested games. Rishabh Pant’s debut as LSG’s captain revealed areas for improvement, which he will need to address in future games to harness his full potential as a leader.