Tue Mar 25 21:14:00 UTC 2025: ## Cricket Critics Slam Pant’s Shot Selection After LSG Loss

**New Delhi, March 26, 2025** – Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant’s batting performance in his team’s loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) on Monday has drawn sharp criticism from several cricket experts. Following DC’s thrilling victory chasing down a 210-run target, Pant’s shot selection, particularly against spin bowling, came under fire.

Former Indian batsman Ambati Rayudu, speaking to ESPNcricinfo, highlighted Pant’s tendency to go for sixes instead of rotating the strike or playing gap shots. He criticized Pant’s batting quality, especially in the middle overs, and pointed out the weakness of LSG’s batting lineup against spin, citing Ayush Badoni’s low strike rate against slow bowling.

Matthew Hayden echoed these concerns, noting Pant’s wasted six balls in a crucial situation after a 28-run over. Hayden emphasized the importance of rotating the strike and simplifying his approach, suggesting Pant possesses the skill to do so.

Piyush Chawla added his voice to the criticism, observing that Pant’s defensive shots were too straight, an ineffective tactic in T20 and ODI cricket. Chawla suggested angling shots slightly to secure singles, given field placements.

Despite LSG setting a challenging 210-run target, DC’s resurgence after being 65/5, fueled by Ashutosh Sharma’s impressive 66*, ultimately sealed their victory. Pant’s debut as LSG captain and player proved disappointing despite the team’s initial strong start. The criticisms underscore the need for Pant to refine his batting strategy, especially when facing spin, to improve his overall performance.

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