Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) shattered records at the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah by securing Rishabh Pant for a staggering ₹27 crore, the highest bid ever in IPL history. The franchise’s bold move highlights its commitment to building a powerhouse team under strong leadership, especially after Nicholas Pooran, retained by LSG, declined the captaincy role.
Pant, known for his explosive batting, sharp wicketkeeping, and leadership skills, emerged as LSG’s primary target ahead of the auction. Speaking to The Times of India, team owner Sanjiv Goenka shared insights into the strategy behind the record bid. “We had planned extensively for this. We set aside ₹25-27 crore for him because of the immense value he brings to the team. His resilience, positivity, and game-winning abilities make him a perfect fit for our vision,” Goenka said.
The bidding war for Pant saw fierce competition from Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals, but LSG’s determination to secure the dynamic player proved unmatched. The franchise sees Pant not just as a game-changer but also as a leader who can inspire the team on and off the field.
“We haven’t finalized the captaincy yet, but Pant’s leadership qualities are undeniable,” Goenka added. “He complements our strong core, which includes match-winners like Nicholas Pooran and David Miller.”
Zaheer Khan, LSG’s mentor and former Indian cricketer, emphasized Pant’s growth over the years, calling him a natural leader. “Pant’s understanding of the game has matured remarkably. His ability to adapt to situations and his calm demeanor under pressure are qualities of a true leader,” Zaheer noted.
Head coach Justin Langer also weighed in on Pant’s impact beyond his on-field performances. “What sets Pant apart is not just his skills but his infectious energy and character. He has the ability to lift the morale of the entire squad,” Langer remarked.
Pant’s addition is expected to strengthen LSG’s leadership group, aligning with the franchise’s long-term vision of creating a championship-winning team. With his explosive batting and proven ability to handle pressure, Pant will play a pivotal role in the team’s quest for its maiden IPL title.
The record-breaking signing has already created a buzz among fans and cricketing experts, setting high expectations for LSG in the 2025 season.
