In a thrilling IPL 2025 game at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium, Rishabh Pant put on a masterclass by hitting an unbeaten 118 off 61 balls to set Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) a challenging total of 227/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The LSG captain received criticism for his inconsistent form this season but surely made up for it with an explosive innings, which included an amazing 11 fours and eight sixes. Pant hit a 54-ball century, only his second in IPL, which both helped LSG instill hope into a disappointing season and pressured RCB’s bowling depth.

Pant's celebration was almost as electric as his innings. Upon reaching the landmark, he pointed to the LSG badge, kissed his bat, and did a backflip that fired up the Ekana crowd. The animated celebration was intended to show the franchise that paid ₹27 crore for his services and also the Indian selectors a signal, as India has a full calendar coming up that includes a Test tour of England where he is vice captain. Along with Mitchell Marsh's 67 off 37, Pant's explosive innings set RCB a difficult task ahead.

RCB is currently 27/0 after 1.5 overs, with Virat Kohli and Phil Salt batting. After setting the lofty target of 228, RCB cannot afford to lose their next match since they need to win to make sure they stay in the top two and avoid the 50-50 Eliminator against Mumbai Indians. LSG has nothing to lose, and that is why they can have fun as they build a team for next year, and they have surely damaged RCB's chances by piling pressure on the RCB bowlers.

Pant’s Redemption

Pant's century brings his IPL 2025 tally to 359 runs in 14 matches, a 29.91 average, and a 152 strike rate. He is the second Indian wicketkeeper, after KL Rahul, to score two IPL centuries. Overall, his performance here today not only helped LSG show promise, but it will also be a warning to rivals that Pant's return to form means business as he prepares for the last phase of the season.

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For RCB, the pressure is on; they must overcome Pant’s heroics to keep their top-two hopes alive. This match underscores Pant’s ability to turn games single-handedly, leaving a lasting impact on IPL 2025.