Lucknow, May 28, 2025 — In what could be described as a script worthy of a cricketing fairytale, Rishabh Pant silenced critics and reignited his form in dazzling style with a sensational unbeaten 118 off 61 balls for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The knock not only rescued a dismal IPL season for the skipper but also went viral after franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka’s one-word praise: "Pantastic."
Redemption in Style
The IPL 2025 campaign had been a rollercoaster for Pant. Much was expected from the wicketkeeper-batter, especially after LSG shelled out a record-breaking ₹27 crore to secure his services — the highest ever bid in IPL auction history. But expectations quickly turned to disappointment as Pant endured a lean run: 151 runs in 13 matches, just one fifty, and mounting criticism over his form and leadership.
Yet, all it took was one innings — one breath-taking, backflip-celebrating, explosive innings — to turn the tide.
Facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in LSG’s final league game, Pant walked in at No. 3 after debutant opener Matthew Bretzkee departed early. With the pressure at an all-time high, the captain played one of the most memorable innings of the season, slamming 8 sixes and 11 boundaries to power LSG to a formidable total of 227/4 in their 20 overs.
A Knock for the Ages
Pant announced his arrival with flair, smashing Yash Dayal for a six and two boundaries within the powerplay. What followed was a masterclass in controlled aggression. He was brutal yet calculated, mixing orthodox shots with flamboyant power-hitting that reminded fans of the fearless Pant from seasons past.
Teaming up with the ever-consistent Mitchell Marsh, Pant stitched together a record-breaking 152-run partnership for the second wicket. While Marsh notched up his sixth century of the season, it was Pant who anchored the innings, shifting gears seamlessly when Marsh was dismissed in the 16th over.
He spared no one — not even veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whom he dispatched to the boundary with casual dominance. Against leg-spinner Suyash Sharma, Pant was merciless, collecting 39 runs from the youngster’s three overs.
With Nicholas Pooran struggling at the other end to get going, Pant took it upon himself to keep the scoreboard ticking and the pressure on the opposition. His ability to read the pitch, find gaps, and keep calm under pressure showcased a matured version of the explosive batsman India has long relied on.
“Pantastic”: Goenka’s Viral Tribute
LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka, who has been a consistent presence throughout the season, wasn’t at the stadium to witness Pant’s epic innings in person. But he made sure his appreciation was felt online. Taking to social media, Goenka shared images of Pant’s iconic backflip celebration, captioned simply:
"Pantastic."
The single-word post went viral, with fans, cricketers, and analysts echoing the sentiment across platforms. It was more than just a compliment — it was a symbol of belief, support, and vindication.
Notably, Goenka had previously been seen consoling Pant with a hand on his shoulder after LSG’s playoff hopes had dimmed. His unwavering backing through the ups and downs added emotional weight to this turnaround.
Timing Couldn’t Be Better
Pant’s return to form couldn’t have come at a better moment. Recently named India’s vice-captain for the Test team, Pant is set to embark on a high-stakes five-match Test series in England, kicking off India’s new World Test Championship campaign.
With legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin having recently retired, Indian cricket is entering a new era, led by Shubman Gill and supported by an exciting young core — of which Pant is a crucial pillar.
Pant’s IPL ton — his first in the league — will no doubt serve as a confidence booster ahead of the English tour, where conditions will demand both grit and skill.
From Struggles to Stardom
Pant’s form in the IPL this year was, until this knock, among the lowest points of his career. Often dismissed cheaply, out of sync, and even trolled online, he carried the heavy burden of expectation. But Tuesday's innings was a reminder of why he remains one of Indian cricket’s brightest stars.
Cricket analyst Harsha Bhogle aptly summed it up, tweeting:
“Class is permanent. Pant’s innings tonight is the kind of redemption story IPL thrives on.”
Fan Frenzy and Franchise Faith
Following Goenka’s post, fans flooded social media with messages of praise:
- “Captain leading from the front — finally!”
- “This is the Rishabh Pant we love!”
- “That celebration gave me goosebumps!”
The franchise, too, celebrated with a special video montage of Pant’s innings, using the hashtag #PantasticComeback — now trending across platforms.
Looking Ahead
While LSG’s IPL 2025 playoff dreams may be over, Pant’s performance in their final match may have just redefined the team’s vision for the future. With a solid support system in Goenka, the form of Marsh and Pooran, and the potential of young talents like Bretzkee, LSG can look to IPL 2026 with optimism.
As for Pant, his innings serves not just as a personal milestone, but as a statement: he’s back, and he’s hungrier than ever.
In cricket, form is temporary, but class is eternal. On May 27, Rishabh Pant reminded us why he's in a class of his own.
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