After an 8-wicket loss to Delhi Capitals, Pant clarifies his late arrival at the crease, addresses Mayank Yadav’s prolonged absence, and reflects on Lucknow’s middle-overs slump.
Lucknow, April 23: After suffering a comprehensive eight-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals at home, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant opened up about his unusual decision to bat at No. 7 and shed light on the ongoing absence of express pacer Mayank Yadav from the playing XI.
Despite a blazing start powered by an 87-run opening partnership between Aiden Markram (52) and Mitchell Marsh (45), LSG’s innings fizzled out, ending at a modest 159/6. With power-hitters like Nicholas Pooran failing and Pant entering the crease with just two balls left in the innings, eyebrows were raised.
🗣️ Why Did Pant Bat So Late?
Pant, who walked out with just two deliveries left and was dismissed for a two-ball duck, clarified during the post-match presentation that the decision was tactical.
“The idea was to capitalise. We sent Samad to exploit the conditions. Then Miller came in, and we just got stuck. These are combinations we are still figuring out.”
He dismissed speculations about a potential hand injury—despite visible strapping—and emphasized it was a strategic shuffle, not a forced one.
🔁 Mayank Yadav Watch: Still Waiting
LSG’s pace sensation Mayank Yadav, who has been notably absent this season, was again listed as an impact sub but did not play. Pant addressed this, stating:
“That is one reason we’re using Ayush (Badoni) as the impact to make space for Mayank. He just returned from the NCA. We’re trying to find a way to integrate him as the season progresses.”
🧮 Toss, Pitch & Missed Opportunities
Pant acknowledged the crucial role of the toss in Lucknow’s home games. Out of six matches at the Ekana Stadium this season, teams bowling first have won five.
“Yes, toss is playing a huge part here, but as a team, we’re not looking for excuses. The pitch does get better in the second innings—but we have to adapt.”
He admitted the side was “20 runs short”, pointing to a lack of execution in the middle overs after a promising powerplay.
🧠 Looking Ahead
With Lucknow suffering their fourth defeat of the season, Pant called for a “fresh start” and a renewed focus for upcoming fixtures.
“We’re going to regroup, realign, and refocus. Every match going forward is crucial.”
Match Summary:
- Top LSG scorers: Aiden Markram (52), Mitchell Marsh (45), Ayush Badoni (36)
- Top DC performers: KL Rahul (57*), Abhishek Porel (51), Mukesh Kumar (4/33)
Delhi Capitals cruised to their target in 17.5 overs, riding on Rahul’s record-breaking innings and a strong bowling performance led by Mukesh Kumar.
As the season enters its second half, Lucknow Super Giants need to find answers fast—both in their combinations and in their consistency.