In a historic move during the IPL 2025 mega auction, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) made headlines by acquiring Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for an unprecedented ₹27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. Sanjiv Goenka, the LSG owner, has opened up about the decision, explaining the rationale behind the record-breaking bid.
A Bold Move to Reshape LSG
Pant’s signing comes in the wake of KL Rahul’s controversial departure from the franchise. LSG needed a player who could not only deliver match-winning performances but also serve as the face of the franchise. According to Goenka, this was less about setting records and more about finding the right player to embody the team’s vision.
“This is not about having the most expensive player or feeding egos. It’s about finding someone who represents resilience, dynamism, and a winning mindset,” Goenka stated in an interview with Cricbuzz.
Pant’s Miraculous Comeback
Pant’s journey from a devastating car accident in December 2022 to regaining top form has been nothing short of inspirational. His remarkable recovery saw him return to cricket in the IPL 2024, where he scored 446 runs in 13 matches, showcasing his fitness and determination despite Delhi Capitals failing to make the playoffs.
Pant’s form carried over to India’s T20 World Cup campaign, where his crucial knock of 42 runs against Pakistan played a vital role. In the Test arena, he returned with a stellar century against Australia in Chennai and consistent performances against New Zealand, cementing his reputation as a dependable match-winner.
A Strategic Investment
Goenka emphasized that Pant’s resilience and determination were key factors in the decision. “His recovery from a life-threatening accident and his ability to come back stronger than ever reflect the kind of never-give-up attitude we value. It’s not just about talent; it’s about character, and Pant embodies that,” he explained.
While Pant will likely take on a leadership role for LSG, Goenka refrained from making any official announcements regarding captaincy, stating, “We’ll reveal our plans soon.”
The Bigger Picture
Pant wasn’t the only high-profile buy at the auction. Other Indian stars like Shreyas Iyer and Venkatesh Iyer also fetched over ₹20 crore, signaling a shift in focus toward homegrown talent. Alongside Pant, LSG also brought in experienced players like David Miller, Mitchell Marsh, Akash Deep, and Aiden Markram to strengthen their squad.
With the IPL 2025 season shaping up to be highly competitive, all eyes will be on Pant as he takes on the challenge of leading a revamped LSG side. Whether the record-breaking investment pays off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Pant’s comeback story has already won hearts across the cricketing world.
