Rishabh Pant Injured?: A worrying moment unfolded during the Indian Premier League 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants when LSG captain Rishabh Pant suffered a painful elbow injury and had to leave the field retired hurt. The incident occurred during the 23rd match of the tournament on April 15 at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
The injury immediately sparked concern among fans and commentators, raising the question across social media: “Rishabh Pant Injured?”
Hazlewood Delivery Strikes Pant’s Elbow
The incident took place in the fifth over of Lucknow Super Giants’ innings. Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was leading the attack for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Pant came on strike early in the over and faced a couple of dot balls as Hazlewood maintained tight control.
On the fourth delivery of the over, however, things took an unfortunate turn. Hazlewood delivered a sharp rising ball that struck Pant directly on his elbow. The impact was immediate and painful, leaving the LSG skipper visibly uncomfortable at the crease.
Pant could be seen wincing in pain as he tried to shake off the blow. Within moments, the team physiotherapist rushed onto the field to assess the situation. Despite receiving quick treatment, Pant was unable to continue his innings and decided to walk off the field.
After facing just three balls, the left-handed wicketkeeper-batter was forced to retire hurt, leaving his team in a difficult position early in the innings. As Pant slowly made his way back to the pavilion, he appeared to be in significant discomfort. In a gesture of sportsmanship, Hazlewood also patted Pant on the back while he left the field.
Toss and Team Changes
Earlier in the evening, Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar won the toss and opted to bowl first against Lucknow Super Giants. The Bengaluru side made one change to their playing XI, bringing Hazlewood into the lineup in place of Jacob Duffy.
Meanwhile, star batter Virat Kohli was named as an impact substitute after he suffered an ankle injury during RCB’s previous match against Mumbai Indians.
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Playing XIs for the Match
Lucknow Super Giants:
Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant (wk/c), Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Mukul Chaudhary, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Prince Yadav.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar.
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Concern for LSG Going Forward
Pant’s injury could become a significant concern for Lucknow Super Giants if it turns out to be serious. As captain and a key middle-order batter, his presence is vital to the team’s balance and strategy.
While the full extent of the injury was not immediately confirmed, fans and analysts are closely awaiting updates from the team management regarding “Rishabh Pant Injured?” and whether the star wicketkeeper will be available for upcoming IPL 2026 matches.
