Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant IPL 2025, fresh off India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, has opened up about his cricketing journey, influences, and adaptation to the modern game. Set to lead Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025, Pant—who became the most expensive player in IPL history at ₹27 crores— reflected on the impact of his late coach Tarak Singh, his unique approach to batting, and his mindset in high-pressure situations.
As LSG prepare for their IPL 2025 opener against Delhi Capitals (DC) on March 24 in Visakhapatnam, Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 spoke on JioHotstar about his transition from a fearless stroke-player to a more refined cricketer, his early struggles with discipline, and the evolution of modern batting techniques.
Tarak Singh’s Influence: Learning to Balance Attack with Technique
Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 credited his late coach, Tarak Singh, for shaping his game and instilling the importance of a solid defensive technique alongside his natural attacking instincts.
“When I started playing after moving from Roorkee, I mostly played lofted shots—almost 80% of the time. I did not think about playing along the ground because I used to open the innings.”
Pant’s father also played a crucial role, pushing him out of his comfort zone and encouraging him to compete against senior players to develop resilience and adaptability.
“My father always said that playing against your age group is normal, but if you want to improve in cricket, you must compete with older players.”
However, under Tarak Singh’s coaching, Pant was forced to focus on defense first before being allowed to play attacking shots.
“Tarak Sir had one rule—‘You must learn defense first. If you master defense, you will master everything else.’ He believed I already knew how to hit big shots, so he wanted me to learn how to defend.”
To comply with his coach’s strict approach, Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 admitted he often pretended to play textbook strokes when Singh was watching but resumed his natural attacking game the moment he looked away.
The Evolution of Batting: Learning from MS Dhoni and Adapting to the Modern Game
Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 acknowledged that while aggressive and unconventional shots have been a part of cricket for years, today’s generation is adapting to new challenges. He pointed to MS Dhoni as one of his biggest inspirations.
“Earlier, quite a few players played these shots. I have seen old videos of Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni), and he, too, has played the lap shot. But percentage-wise, I think they used to do it less.”
According to Rishabh Pant IPL 2025, modern-day field placements and evolving bowling tactics have forced batters to play innovative shots more frequently.
“The game is changing now—field placements are different, and players are adapting. Some might feel it is necessary for their game, while others may not. At the end of the day, how you read the game determines how you play it.”
Gymnastics and Fitness: A Secret Weapon in Pant’s Game
Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 also credited his childhood gymnastics training for significantly contributing to his agility, reflexes, and overall fitness.
“I used to do gymnastics as a kid. My gymnastics coach always told me that it would come in handy in life.”
His gymnastics background has helped him improve his balance, flexibility, and explosive movements, key attributes that have enhanced his wicketkeeping skills and batting footwork.
“Basu Sir, our Indian team trainer, once told me in 2018-19, ‘Thank you to your gymnastics coach because what he taught you in childhood is still benefiting you today.’”
The Mystery Behind Pant’s Slipping Bat and Risk-Taking Mindset
One of the quirky moments often associated with Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 is how his bat frequently slips out of his hands, drawing amusement from fans and commentators alike.
Pant explained that this is due to the way he grips the bat, using his bottom hand lightly while relying on his top hand for control.
“I think it (bat slipping out of my hands) mostly happens because I hold my bottom hand very lightly. I mainly try to use my bottom hand for support because, at times, it starts dominating.”
Despite occasional mistakes or unconventional shot selections, Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 maintains that his primary focus remains on helping his team score runs.
“If my bat slips, if it is not in my hand, or even if it hits my head—my only focus at that moment is finding the boundary. That is my thought process.”
Rishabh Pant IPL 2025: Leadership Role at LSG
Despite being the most expensive player in IPL history, Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 made it clear that his ultimate goal has always been to represent India.
“I believe that if your goal is to play for your country, everything else—including the IPL—will eventually fall into place.”
His dedication to the national team paid off when he made his India debut at the age of 18, a milestone he remains grateful for.
“I always believed that I would play for India one day, and God has been kind. At 18, I got the opportunity to make my debut, and I am grateful for that.”
What to Expect from Rishabh Pant IPL 2025?
🔸 New Chapter as LSG Captain: Leading a new team, Pant’s leadership skills will be under the spotlight.
🔸 Aggressive Batting Approach: Expect fearless stroke play and quick acceleration in the middle overs.
🔸 Dynamic Wicketkeeping Skills: Gymnastics-enhanced reflexes make him one of the sharpest keepers in the game.
🔸 High Expectations: As IPL’s most expensive player, all eyes will be on Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 to deliver a match-winning season.
Final Thoughts: Can Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 Lead LSG to Their First IPL Title?
With a new team, record-breaking price tag, and leadership responsibilities, IPL 2025 marks a defining chapter in Rishabh Pant IPL 2025’s career.
“With a fearless approach, leadership role, and a fresh challenge, all eyes will be on Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 to see if he can lead LSG to their maiden IPL title.” 🚀🏆
Cricket fans won’t have to wait long to find out. 🏏🔥
