Star wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant has finally spoken about swirling rumors hinting at his departure from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) following a lackluster IPL 2025 season. A social media message had reported that LSG officials were keen to release Pant before IPL 2026, mentioning his ₹27 crore price and lackluster performance. Pant struck back at the reports with force, denouncing the generation of misinformation on social media.
Pant Slams Viral Post Hinting His LSG Exit
Pant, acquired by LSG for a record ₹27 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, had a forgettable season. He scored just 135 runs in 12 games, averaging 12.27 – the worst in his IPL career. With LSG failing to make the playoffs, a journalist posted on X
(formerly Twitter)
In response, Pant took to social media and wrote:
“I get fake News provides more traction To content but let’s not built everything around it. Little sense and credible news will do more harm rather creating fake news with agenda. Thanks have a good day. Let’s be responsible and sensible what we post on social media.”
LSG’s High Hopes Dashed Despite Star-Studded Lineup
The Sanjiv Goenka-owned team went into the IPL 2025 season with a lot of hopes, particularly following the signing of a marquee player like Pant. The batting unit of LSG featured heavies such as Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, and David Miller. The team was unable to qualify for the top four despite the star power.
Their aspirations for a knockout spot were undone following a decisive loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad last week. The defeat mathematically ruled them out of playoff contention, which led to sharp criticism of the team’s tactics and performances of the players.
Owner Sanjiv Goenka Reflects on Disappointing Campaign
In the aftermath of the exit talk, team owner Sanjiv Goenka posted his thoughts on social media, with an emphasis on the takeaways of the season. “It’s been a tough second half of the season, but there is lots to take heart from. The passion, the work rate, and the flashes of brilliance give us a lot to work on. Two more games to go. Let’s play with pride and finish on a high note. #LSGvsSRH,” he posted on X.
Goenka’s tweet indicates the team is still united in its determination to get together and work towards the long term instead of acting in haste over one bad season.
Social Media and Misinformation in the Limelight
The controversy has now brought into the limelight the effect of social media gossip on players and franchises. Pant’s vehement reaction is a sign of increasing concern over reputation and team image being affected by false news.
As LSG winds up the IPL 2025 season, attention will turn to how the franchise approaches its next moves — and whether Pant will remain the face of the team long-term.
