The 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) marks the fourth season for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the competition. The highly anticipated mega auction, held in Jeddah ahead of the league’s 18th edition, saw LSG make significant additions to their squad, blending fresh talent with seasoned professionals.

The standout acquisition, however, was Rishabh Pant, whose record-breaking INR 27 crore price tag made him the most expensive player in IPL history. Pant, now LSG’s captain, recently shared his excitement about the team’s composition during a conversation on JioStar. Reflecting on his teammates, he highlighted the camaraderie and talent within the squad.

“Nicholas Pooran is my friend; we spoke a lot during my recovery. David Miller has been phenomenal, finishing games with his vast experience. And the youngsters in our team? They’re all tabaahi (destructive),” Rishabh Pant remarked, emphasizing the depth and firepower in LSG’s lineup.

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LSG’s owner, Sanjiv Goenka, expressed immense confidence in Pant, predicting a bright future for the wicketkeeper-batter with the franchise. In a mix of praise and humour, Goenka compared Pant to Lucknowi chaat (a local street food delicacy), capturing his vibrant and multi-faceted persona.

“Rishabh Pant isn’t just going to be the best player for LSG but the IPL itself. His passion, connection with players, and unique thought process make him a standout. I see him as a leader and believe he could become the best captain the IPL has ever seen,” said Sanjiv Goenka.

For the uninitiated, IPL 2025 will mark Pant’s debut season with LSG after parting ways with Delhi Capitals (DC). Since his IPL debut in 2016, Pant had been an integral part of DC, amassing 3,284 runs in 111 matches at an impressive strike rate of 148.93. However, a fallout with DC management over his future led to his release ahead of the mega auction.

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The intense bidding war that ensued at the auction demonstrated Pant’s immense value, with multiple franchises vying for his signature. Ultimately, LSG secured his services, setting a new benchmark in IPL history. With Pant at the helm, LSG’s upcoming season promises to be one filled with flair, talent, and high expectations.