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Rishabh Pant, the most expensive player in IPL history, continues to attract headlines—this time not for his batting fireworks, but due to a fresh wave of controversy during Delhi Capitals’ clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2025.
Despite high expectations leading into the season, Pant has failed to make a significant impact with the bat. The criticism grew louder when he didn’t come out to bat during DC’s innings against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). But what happened during KKR’s chase is what sparked major debate across social media.
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Rishabh Pant’s Mid-Match Injury Sparks Controversy
In the second half of the match, with KKR needing 90 runs off 48 balls and holding eight wickets in hand, Pant appeared to suffer a back issue after the 12th over. He was seen lying on the ground, receiving treatment, and in visible discomfort.
However, much to everyone’s surprise, he returned to wicketkeeping duties without any noticeable signs of pain—diving, moving swiftly, and appearing perfectly fine.
This sudden switch in body language has led to fans and pundits questioning the authenticity of the injury.
Déjà Vu: Flashback to T20 World Cup 2024 Final
This isn’t the first time Pant has been accused of using injury as a tactic. In the final of the T20 World Cup 2024, he went down clutching his knee in a tense moment of the match. Many believed the break helped India shift the momentum, eventually securing the title.
That same sequence seemed to replay itself on Tuesday as DC, under pressure, suddenly found a boost right after Pant’s injury break. Soon after resuming, LSG struck key blows with Shardul Thakur dismissing Ajinkya Rahane, followed by quick wickets of Ramandeep Singh and Angkrish Raghuvanshi. KKR, who had the upper hand in the chase, faltered under pressure.
Tactical Pause or Genuine Pain?
Whether Pant’s injury was real or a clever ploy to break the rhythm of KKR’s batting remains unclear. What is certain is that LSG benefitted significantly from the break in play. The shift in momentum post-Pant’s brief layoff was evident, and KKR never quite recovered.
As debates rage on, many are now eagerly waiting for an official statement from Pant or the DC camp to clarify the incident.
Final Word
Cricket is a game of fine margins, and mind games are as much a part of it as batting or bowling. Whether it was gamesmanship or just an ill-timed injury, Rishabh Pant’s “pain pause” proved to be a pivotal turning point once again—just as it did in the World Cup final.
The question remains: smart strategy or spirit of the game violation?
Let us know your thoughts. Was it fair play, or did Pant bend the rules of cricketing sportsmanship?
