Former Australia head coach Justin Langer has shared his thoughts on working with Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter who has often been a thorn in Australia’s side during past Test series. Pant, who was a star performer in India’s two consecutive Test series victories Down Under, has now joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a record-breaking INR 27 crore in the IPL 2025 auction—the highest price ever in the league’s history.
Langer, who became LSG’s head coach ahead of the IPL 2024 season, expressed his excitement about the prospect of teaming up with Pant, shifting their relationship from rivals to collaborators. Speaking on air during the second India-Australia Test in Adelaide, Langer said, “Rishabh Pant has haunted me the most during the last two series. But as of a week ago, I hope he becomes my favourite person with Lucknow Super Giants picking him. He’s my mate now, not my nemesis.”
Pant’s Heroics in Australia
Pant’s performances in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series were instrumental in India’s historic victories in Australia. In the 2018/19 series, he amassed 350 runs, including an outstanding 159*, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer. His fearless approach with the bat made him a constant headache for the Australian bowlers.
Two years later, Pant played another crucial role in the 2020/21 BGT, scoring 274 runs. His match-winning 89* at the Gabba sealed India’s remarkable series win, marking their second consecutive triumph on Australian soil. Beyond his batting, Pant was also reliable with the gloves, claiming 28 dismissals across both series.
A New Chapter with LSG
Pant’s move to LSG sets the stage for an exciting partnership with Langer, who is eager to build a strong working relationship with the 26-year-old. Langer’s appointment has already brought new energy to the franchise, and Pant’s addition promises to elevate the team’s prospects for IPL 2025.
Meanwhile, Pant remains focused on the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where India faces a stiff challenge from Australia. Despite his modest contribution of 21 runs on Day 1 of the second Test in Adelaide, his presence in the squad continues to be crucial for India.
India, after electing to bat, struggled against the Australian bowling attack and was bowled out for 180, with Nitish Reddy top-scoring with 42. As the series unfolds, both Langer and Pant look forward to leaving their mark in their respective roles, signaling a new chapter in their cricketing journey.
