In the high-stakes world of cricket, where pressure often mounts to unbearable levels, moments of levity can serve as a refreshing reminder of the sport’s lighter side. Such was the case during the IPL 2025 clash between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on March 24, 2025, at the Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Amidst a tense match situation, Rishabh Pant, captain of LSG, engaged in a playful exchange with his India teammate Kuldeep Yadav that quickly became a highlight of the game.
Rishabh Pant pushes Kuldeep Yadav out of his crease
As the match progressed into its critical stages, Delhi Capitals found themselves in a precarious position, needing 39 runs from just 17 balls after losing their eighth wicket at the start of the 18th over. The atmosphere was charged with tension as both teams fought for supremacy. However, Pant’s arrival at the crease was marked not by anxiety but by humour. On the second ball of the 18th over bowled by Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep attempted to cut a delivery but ended up chopping it towards the wicketkeeper.
In a moment that caught everyone off guard, Pant playfully pushed Kuldeep out of his crease before swiftly removing the bails. This act of friendly banter, while technically an attempt at a run-out, was received with laughter and applause from players and fans alike. It showcased not only Pant’s mischievous spirit but also the camaraderie shared between him and Kuldeep, both of whom are integral parts of India’s cricketing fabric.
Here’s the video:
Pant being naughty with Kuldeep🤣🤣 #IPL #DCvLSG pic.twitter.com/uatkYVLfsx
— RocketNitro1992 (@RNitro1992) March 24, 2025
Also WATCH: Ashutosh Sharma celebrates match-winning knock with mentor Shikhar Dhawan post DC vs LSG match in IPL 2025
Ashutosh Sharma’s heroics steal the show against LSG
While Pant’s antics provided comic relief, it was Ashutosh Sharma‘s remarkable performance that ultimately defined the match. Coming in as an impact substitute for Delhi Capitals, Sharma took centre stage in the final overs. In just a few deliveries during the 18th over, he smashed two sixes and a boundary off Bishnoi, demonstrating remarkable composure under pressure. Despite losing another wicket in the penultimate over, Sharma remained unfazed and continued to attack Prince Yadav.
With six runs required in the final over against Shahbaz Ahmed, Sharma hit a six on the third ball to seal an improbable victory by one wicket for DC. His innings of 66 not out earned him the Player of the Match award and highlighted his belief in finishing games—a lesson he learned from previous experiences.
“I learned from last year that finishing games is crucial, You just have to stay calm and trust your instincts,” Sharma reflected post-match —a mantra that resonated throughout his innings and contributed to DC’s thrilling win.
The playful interaction between Pant and Kuldeep serves as a testament to how friendships can thrive even in competitive environments. Their light-hearted moment amidst a high-pressure situation reminded fans that cricket is not just about winning or losing; it’s also about relationships built over years on and off the field.
