Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2025 journey was a rollercoaster of emotions, setbacks, and a final flourish that reminded everyone of his extraordinary talent. After a season marked by injuries, criticism, and relentless scrutiny, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper has made it clear: he wants to “switch off” from cricket before his next big assignment—the England Test series.
A Season of Highs, Lows, and a Stunning Finale
The Struggles
Pant entered IPL 2025 as the most expensive player in league history, acquired by LSG for a staggering ₹27 crore. Expectations soared, but the season unfolded as one of the most challenging of his career. Plagued by inconsistent form and a string of low scores, Pant managed just one half-century until the final match, with critics and fans questioning his price tag and future with the franchise. LSG’s campaign was further hampered by injuries to key bowlers, making it difficult to build momentum or secure a playoff spot.
The Redemption
Despite the adversity, Pant delivered a sensational performance in LSG’s last league game, smashing an unbeaten 118 off 61 balls against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. His innings, featuring 11 fours and eight sixes, helped LSG post a formidable 227/3. While Jitesh Sharma’s explosive 85* off 33 balls ultimately denied LSG a win, Pant’s knock was a reminder of his match-winning abilities and silenced many doubters.
Rishabh Pant’s Honest Admission: “I Just Want to Switch Off”
After the match, Pant was candid about his mental and physical fatigue. Speaking at the post-match presentation, he said:
“Just want to switch off for a few days, not think about cricket and then the England series is coming up and just preparing for that in a good frame ofmind.
This honest admission resonated with fans and experts alike. Pant’s desire to step away from cricket, even briefly, highlights the intense demands of modern professional sport—especially after a grueling season filled with pressure and expectation.
Looking Ahead: Vice-Captaincy and the England Challenge
Pant’s break from cricket won’t last long. He’s set to join the Indian squad as vice-captain for the upcoming five-Test series in England, starting June 20. With Shubman Gill appointed as the new Test captain, Pant’s role as deputy brings added responsibility and a chance to reset both mentally and physically.
Why Pant’s Break Makes Sense
Mental Refresh: A brief hiatus can help Pant return with renewed focus and energy.
Physical Recovery: The IPL’s packed schedule and high intensity take a toll on the body.
Strategic Preparation: Time away from the game allows Pant to approach the England series with a fresh perspective.
IPL 2025: By the Numbers
Matches: 14
Runs: 269
Highest Score: 118* (vs RCB)
Half-centuries: 2 (including the final match)
Strike Rate: 133.16
Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2025: Key Takeaways
- The most expensive IPL player endured a tough season but finished with a statement century.
- Injuries and inconsistency plagued both Pant and LSG.
- Pant’s decision to “switch off” reflects the importance of mental health in elite sport.
- He will return as India’s vice-captain for a high-stakes England Test series.
FAQs
1. Why does Rishabh Pant want to switch off after IPL 2025?
Pant wants to take a mental break after a demanding and challenging IPL season before preparing for the England Test series.
2. How did Rishabh Pant perform in IPL 2025?
Pant scored 269 runs in 14 matches, with a season-best 118* in his final game, but struggled for consistency overall.
3. What is Rishabh Pant’s next cricket assignment?
Pant will serve as vice-captain for India in the five-Test series against England, starting June 20, 2025.
4. Was Pant’s IPL season affected by injuries?
Yes, LSG’s campaign was hampered by injuries to key bowlers, affecting the team’s overall performance and momentum.
5. What did Pant say about his mindset after IPL 2025?
Pant said he wants to “not think about cricket” for a few days and focus on returning in a good frame of mind for the England series.
Conclusion
Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2025 was a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. While the season was filled with challenges, his explosive century in the final match showed his enduring class. By choosing to “switch off” before the England Test series, Pant is prioritizing his well-being—a move that could pay dividends for both himself and Indian cricket as a whole.