Tue Apr 22 17:34:51 UTC 2025: ## Lucknow Super Giants Stumble to 159/6 Against Delhi Capitals; Rishabh Pant’s Bizarre Late-Innings Appearance Fuels Outrage

**Lucknow, India (April 22, 2025)** – The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) suffered a humiliating defeat against the Delhi Capitals (DC) in an IPL 2025 match today, managing only 159/6 in their 20 overs. The match was marked by the baffling late appearance of LSG captain Rishabh Pant, the most expensive IPL player ever, who came to bat at number seven in the final over and was dismissed for a duck.

Pant, nursing a heavily taped right hand, faced just two balls before being out, prompting widespread criticism on social media. Many questioned the team’s strategy, particularly given LSG’s struggles to reach a competitive total. The team’s score, their lowest of the tournament so far, was significantly hampered by Pant’s late and unsuccessful entry to the crease.

The Delhi Capitals’ bowling attack was instrumental in LSG’s downfall. Mukesh Kumar led the charge with impressive figures of 4/33, supported by Mitchell Starc (1/25) and Dushmantha Chameera (1/25). The trio effectively utilized slower deliveries to restrict LSG’s scoring, particularly in the latter half of their innings.

Despite a strong start, with Aiden Markram scoring 52 and Mitchell Marsh contributing 45, LSG struggled to maintain momentum after the 10th over, adding only 72 runs in the remaining overs. Ayush Badoni’s 36 off 21 balls offered some resistance, but it proved insufficient against the dominant DC bowling performance.

The match highlighted not only LSG’s batting woes but also the questionable tactical decisions surrounding Pant’s late arrival at the crease, leaving fans and commentators alike perplexed. The team’s inability to capitalize on a promising start, coupled with the captain’s unusual batting position, resulted in a disappointing and unexpected loss.

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