Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Rishabh Pant made a fiery statement on Monday night against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with two jaw-dropping shots that stole the spotlight—even with MS Dhoni behind the stumps.
In a thrilling moment during the 18th over of LSG’s innings, Pant played a sensational helicopter shot—a signature stroke of none other than Dhoni himself—leaving fans and commentators stunned. The moment became even more iconic with Dhoni watching from behind the stumps.
Reliving the Iconic Shots
Pant’s fireworks came in the final overs when Matheesha Pathirana returned for his spell.
- Ball 1: A full delivery aimed at the stumps. Pant got under it beautifully and whipped it helicopter-style for a massive 79-metre six over deep midwicket.
- Ball 2: He ran a quick double.
- Ball 3: Pathirana tested him with a bouncer, but Pant responded with a stunning one-handed pull shot over deep square leg, proving his timing is returning to peak form.
📹 [Watch the video of the shots here]
𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘 🫡#LSG skipper brings up his maiden fifty of the season 🔥
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 14, 2025
Pick your favourite between these two specials? 🚁
Updates ▶ https://t.co/jHrifBkT14 #TATAIPL | #LSGvCSK | @RishabhPant17 pic.twitter.com/GiMky62KXP
Rishabh Pant Redemption
This 50-plus score marks Pant’s first half-century in IPL 2025, a much-needed confidence boost after a slow start to the season. While he eventually fell to Pathirana in the final over (20th), his 50+ knock gave LSG some momentum during the slog overs.
CSK Bowling Response
Despite Pant’s brilliance, LSG managed only 166/7, which might be a touch below-par given the conditions. Pathirana and Ravindra Jadeja both bagged two wickets each, keeping things tight.
Jadeja, speaking during the mid-innings break, said:
“The wicket was very good, the ball wasn’t gripping due to dew. I just focused on simple lines and anticipated their shots. With such a fast outfield, we need to bowl with discipline. Might bat higher today—we just need to play good cricketing shots.”
Quick Match Summary: LSG vs CSK (April 14, 2025)
| Details | Stats |
|---|---|
| Match | LSG vs CSK – IPL 2025 |
| Venue | [Stadium Name – if available] |
| LSG Innings | 166/7 in 20 overs |
| Top Performer | Rishabh Pant – 50+ runs (first of season) |
| CSK Bowlers | Pathirana (2 wickets), Jadeja (2 wickets) |
Final Word
Pant’s return to form with iconic shots—including a helicopter shot in Dhoni’s presence—was the highlight of the evening. However, LSG’s total may not be enough on this batting-friendly pitch, especially with dew settling in. Can CSK chase it down? Stay tuned for the second innings update!
