IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant Dugout Outburst With Zaheer Khan Criticised by Indian Legends

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Rishabh Pant's furious dugout outburst and heated exchange with mentor Zaheer Khan after getting out for a duck against Delhi Capitals has triggered sharp criticism from Indian cricket legends.

The incident, which took place during Lucknow Super Giants' loss at Ekana on April 22 (Tuesday), has sparked questions over team decisions and Pant's leadership. Pant, bought for a record ₹27 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, batted at an unusually low No. 7 spot-behind Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, and David Miller.

This tactical call confused fans and experts alike, especially since the in-form opening duo of Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh had given LSG a flying start with an 87-run stand. Despite the strong platform, the team finished with just 159/6, and Pant was bowled by Mukesh Kumar on his very first ball.

Returning to the dugout, Pant was visibly angry and was seen having an animated discussion with Zaheer Khan. Former India cricketers Anil Kumble and Suresh Raina, speaking on Star Sports, were quick to comment on the visuals and their implications.

"It's alright if you wanted to bat more freely under less pressure by coming in late, but this was way too late. The kind of frustration Rishabh is showing is evident that he was wronged. Was it his decision? Or was it coach Justin Langer's or maybe mentor Zaheer Khan's? Whose decision was it?" said Kumble.

Raina added that the apparent argument was about Pant not being sent in earlier. "20 overs are left. You have to keep wickets and captain the side. You have to make your side win. He is discussing that with Zaheer Khan. 'I told you, send me in,'" he said.

While acknowledging Pant's frustration, Kumble stressed the importance of composure: "You have to make peace in these situations. He is the captain. He has to take it in a positive way."

Ambati Rayudu also weighed in, suggesting that public outbursts damage team unity: "These visuals are not really good if you are a good team. You want everything to be said indoors. You don't want any dirty laundry to be washed outside. Pant really needs to take control of the decisions that are being made at LSG. He cannot give any more excuses. He is the captain and it is a captain's sport."

As Lucknow Super Giants look to recover from two consecutive defeats, Pant's leadership -- both in strategy and temperament -- is likely to remain under intense scrutiny.