Rishabh Pant showed lack of trust in Bishnoi in IPL 2025: Irfan
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most competitive and thrilling T20 leagues in the world. The tournament has seen its fair share of ups and downs, with teams and players constantly adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the game. One such player who has been in the spotlight recently is Ravi Bishnoi, the young and talented spinner who was acquired by the Rajasthan Royals (RR) for a whopping ₹7.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. However, according to former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan, Bishnoi’s previous team, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and their captain Rishabh Pant, did not show enough trust in the youngster during the IPL 2025 season.
Bishnoi, who had a base price of ₹2 crore, was expected to be one of the most sought-after players in the auction. And he was, with several teams bidding for his services. However, it was the Rajasthan Royals who ultimately acquired him for ₹7.2 crore, a significant increase from his base price. This move has raised eyebrows, with many questioning why the LSG did not retain Bishnoi, especially considering his impressive performance in the IPL 2025 season. Bishnoi had picked up nine wickets in 11 games at an economy of 10.83, which is a decent performance for a spinner in the T20 format.
Irfan Pathan, who has been a part of the IPL since its inception, believes that Rishabh Pant and the LSG team management did not show enough trust in Bishnoi during the IPL 2025 season. “I think Rishabh Pant and the LSG team management did not trust Ravi Bishnoi enough,” Pathan said in a recent interview. “Despite his impressive performance, Bishnoi was not given the consistent opportunities that he deserved. This lack of trust may have affected his confidence and overall performance in the tournament.”
Pathan’s comments have sparked a debate about the role of trust in team sports, particularly in the IPL. Trust is a crucial factor in any team’s success, and it is essential for captains and team management to have faith in their players. When players feel trusted, they are more likely to perform at their best, and this, in turn, can lead to better results for the team. On the other hand, when players feel that they are not trusted, they may become demotivated and disillusioned, which can negatively impact their performance.
The LSG’s decision not to retain Bishnoi has also raised questions about their team strategy and planning. The IPL is a highly competitive tournament, and teams need to have a clear plan and strategy to succeed. Retaining key players is an essential part of this strategy, as it allows teams to build a strong core and create a sense of continuity. By not retaining Bishnoi, the LSG may have missed an opportunity to build a strong team around him, and this could have long-term consequences for the franchise.
On the other hand, the Rajasthan Royals’ decision to acquire Bishnoi for ₹7.2 crore is a clear indication of their faith in the youngster. The Royals have a history of identifying and nurturing young talent, and Bishnoi is likely to thrive in their setup. With a strong team around him and a supportive captain, Bishnoi may be able to reach new heights and fulfill his potential as a spinner.
In conclusion, Irfan Pathan’s comments about Rishabh Pant and the LSG’s lack of trust in Ravi Bishnoi have sparked an interesting debate about the role of trust in team sports. While the LSG’s decision not to retain Bishnoi may have been a strategic mistake, the Rajasthan Royals’ decision to acquire him is a clear indication of their faith in the youngster. As the IPL continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see how Bishnoi performs in the upcoming season and whether the Royals’ decision to acquire him will pay off.