Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) went all-in at the IPL 2025 mega-auction, spending a record-breaking ₹27.5 crore on Rishabh Pant. It was a bold move, signaling their intent to turn things around after a lackluster 2024 campaign. But three matches in, and the gamble isn’t paying off.

Pant has struggled at the crease, managing just 17 runs across three innings. His performances—0, 15, and 2—have raised alarm bells, with LSG already facing two defeats in three games. And after their latest loss to Punjab Kings, tensions reached a boiling point. Owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen in an intense discussion with Pant, a conversation that had shades of frustration written all over it.

Harbhajan Singh Sounds the Alarm

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh didn’t hold back on his assessment. He believes LSG needs to act fast to solve their Pant problem before the season spirals out of control.

“Rishabh Pant hasn’t found his rhythm. His bat has been silent, and that’s a huge shock for the team,” Harbhajan said on his YouTube channel. “LSG needs to figure out how to get him going. They can’t afford their most expensive player struggling like this.”

LSG’s Struggles Continue

Against Punjab, LSG managed a modest 171/7, thanks to Nicholas Pooran’s 44 and Ayush Badoni’s 41. But their total never looked threatening. Punjab Kings chased it down with ease, powered by Shreyas Iyer’s half-century and Nehal Wadhera’s unbeaten 43.

Harbhajan pointed out that LSG lost their grip on the game early on.

“They didn’t score enough after losing the toss. Pooran played well, but once he got out, LSG had no answers. Badoni and Abdul Samad gave a late push, but it wasn’t enough. Punjab’s batting is too strong for a total like 171.”

Punjab Kings Making a Statement

While LSG is struggling, Punjab Kings are making waves. With back-to-back wins, they look like a team with real intent. Harbhajan believes this could be the year PBKS finally breaks their IPL trophy drought.

“Winning in Lucknow isn’t easy. But Punjab played like a unit. Ricky Ponting has brought a winning mentality to this side. They look like contenders this year,” Harbhajan added.

Goenka-Pant Chat

It wasn’t just the loss that made headlines—it was also the fiery exchange between LSG’s owner and their captain. Goenka was seen gesturing animatedly at Pant, much like after their earlier defeat to Delhi Capitals. The message was clear: expectations are high, and Pant needs to deliver.

With pressure mounting and questions swirling, LSG must find a way to turn things around. Can Pant rediscover his form and justify his record-breaking price tag? Or will LSG’s big gamble backfire? The clock is ticking, and the next few matches could define their season.

Click on the below icons to join us now

Follow Thesportsprince.com for the best cricket news and update.