IPL 2025: Star Players from Rishabh Pant to Rohit Sharma Take Center Stage
In the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the excitement surrounding the mega auction has not translated into consistent performances from all marquee players. As the tournament reaches its halfway mark, with each of the ten teams having played at least seven matches, attention has shifted to the standout underperformers among the league’s most expensive acquisitions. This season, several high-profile players have struggled to meet the lofty expectations that accompanied their hefty price tags.
Rishabh Pant’s Struggles with Lucknow Super Giants
Rishabh Pant, who was purchased by Lucknow Super Giants for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore, entered the season with significant expectations following a remarkable return to form last year after a severe car accident. His leadership role as captain was anticipated to bolster both his performance and the team’s success. However, despite Lucknow’s commendable position in the standings, currently fourth with five wins in eight matches, Pant’s personal performance has been disappointing. He has managed just 106 runs in seven innings, averaging a mere 15.14 with a strike rate below 100. His solitary fifty stands out as an exception in an otherwise lackluster campaign, raising concerns about his ability to deliver on the big stage.
Venkatesh Iyer’s Inconsistent Form
Venkatesh Iyer, reacquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 23.75 crore, has also failed to live up to the expectations set by his hefty price tag. The team has struggled for consistency, currently sitting sixth in the standings with only three wins from seven matches. Iyer’s performance has mirrored this inconsistency; although he has produced a couple of promising innings, including a fifty, his overall tally sits at just 121 runs from five innings. His strike rate of 155.12 reflects his ability to score quickly, but it is not enough to offset his lack of substantial contributions. As Kolkata aims to improve their standings, Iyer’s role will be crucial to their aspirations.
Rashid Khan’s Quiet Season
Renowned for his prowess as a T20 bowler, Rashid Khan was retained by the Gujarat Titans for Rs 18 crore, expecting to serve as their bowling spearhead. However, the Afghan leg-spinner has had an unusually subdued season thus far, managing only four wickets in seven matches. With an average of 63.25 and an economy rate of 9.73, his performance has raised eyebrows, especially considering the team’s strong overall standing at the top of the points table. While Gujarat has performed well collectively, Rashid’s lack of wicket-taking ability could be a critical factor as the tournament progresses, with playoff contention looming.
Pat Cummins and Rohit Sharma Under Pressure
Pat Cummins, retained for Rs 18 crore after leading Sunrisers Hyderabad to the final last season, has faced challenges this year. Under his captaincy, SRH has won only two out of seven matches and currently sits ninth in the standings. Despite taking seven wickets, Cummins’ economy rate of 10.21 is alarming, indicating a need for improvement. His standout performance of 3/26 against Mumbai Indians has been a rare highlight in an otherwise difficult season, putting additional pressure on him to inspire a turnaround.
Similarly, Rohit Sharma’s performance for Mumbai Indians has been underwhelming. Although he scored 76 runs against Chennai Super Kings, his overall tally of 158 runs in seven matches includes only one other significant contribution, averaging 26.33. For MI to continue their climb in the standings, Rohit needs to rediscover his form and deliver consistent performances that justify his retention value of Rs 16.30 crore. As the tournament moves forward, the spotlight will remain on these high-profile players to see if they can turn their seasons around.
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