Punjab Kings Defeat Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025
The Punjab Kings (PBKS) delivered a commanding performance in their IPL 2025 clash against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), securing a convincing victory. Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, PBKS showcased dominance with both bat and ball. Iyer led from the front, scoring a stellar half-century, guiding his team to a successful chase.
The Rishabh Pant-PBKS Saga
A subplot to this fixture was the ongoing social media banter between PBKS and LSG captain Rishabh Pant. The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman was one of the biggest buys in the IPL 2025 mega auction, with LSG splashing a record-breaking Rs 27 crore to secure his services. Meanwhile, PBKS opted for Shreyas Iyer at Rs 26.75 crore, just shy of Pant’s price tag.
Pant’s Statement on PBKS
After being unveiled as LSG’s captain, Pant openly expressed his relief at not being picked by PBKS. In a conversation with JioStar, Pant remarked:
“Mera ek hi tension tha, wo tha Punjab (I had only one tension, which was getting picked by Punjab).”
This statement did not go unnoticed by the Punjab Kings franchise, which wasted no time in crafting a witty comeback.
PBKS’ Social Media Jibe
Following their victory over LSG, PBKS took to social media to respond to Pant’s comments. Their post humorously hinted that all their “tension” disappeared the moment they decided to go with Iyer over Pant at the auction table.
This banter between the franchises added a spicy narrative to the contest, drawing significant attention from fans and cricket pundits alike.
Contrasting Forms: Shreyas Iyer vs. Rishabh Pant
The contrasting performances of the two high-profile captains have further fueled the debate over which team made the better investment.
Shreyas Iyer’s Dream Start:
Unbeaten in two games.
149 runs in his first two innings.
Led PBKS to successive wins.
Played an unbeaten 97-run knock against Gujarat Titans in the first match.
Followed it up with a match-winning 52 off 30 balls against LSG.
Rishabh Pant’s Struggles:
Has managed only 17 runs in three games (scores: 0, 15, 2).
LSG has struggled for consistency under his leadership.
Still adjusting to his role after returning from injury.
Iyer’s Captaincy and PBKS’ Rise
Shreyas Iyer has seamlessly adapted to his new role as PBKS skipper. His ability to anchor chases and lead with intent has been a massive boost for the Punjab-based franchise. Iyer’s leadership qualities, honed through his successful stint with Kolkata Knight Riders (where he led them to the IPL 2024 title), are evident in PBKS’ early momentum this season.
His stellar performances are not just limited to IPL. Iyer also led Mumbai to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and was India’s top scorer in the Champions Trophy 2025.
LSG and Pant: A Long Road Ahead
While PBKS and Iyer are soaring, LSG and Rishabh Pant have their work cut out. The franchise has invested heavily in Pant, banking on his explosive batting and dynamic leadership. However, his form slump and LSG’s slow start to the season raise concerns.
Pant will need to find his rhythm quickly to justify his price tag and silence critics. As the tournament progresses, he will look to turn things around and lead his team to crucial wins.
The Bigger Picture
The rivalry between franchises and players is a crucial element of the IPL’s entertainment factor. Social media banter, on-field rivalries, and high-stakes clashes make the tournament more engaging for fans.
PBKS’ decision to opt for Shreyas Iyer over Rishabh Pant appears to be paying off early in the season. However, IPL is a long tournament, and fortunes can change quickly. Whether Pant can bounce back and prove his worth remains to be seen. One thing is certain—this rivalry has only just begun.