Now LSG joins KKR in IPL 2025 pitch curation controversy: Here's who say what

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the growing controversy over pitch conditions in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

After suffering an eight-wicket defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their first home game at the Ekana Stadium, LSG captain Rishabh Pant and team mentor Zaheer Khan voiced their disappointment over the pitch preparation.

Pant lamented that LSG had aimed for a slower wicket to suit their game plan but were left struggling against PBKS’s pacers. “We were 20-25 runs short. It’s our first home game, so we’re still assessing conditions,” he said post-match.

Zaheer Khan’s strong words on pitch preparation

Mentor Zaheer Khan went a step further, making a pointed remark about the pitch curator’s role. “It looked like it was a Punjab curator out here,” he said, implying that the surface failed to offer LSG the home advantage they expected.

Khan further stressed that the franchise would work to ensure better conditions in future home games, as fans deserved to see their team thrive at home.

No clear home advantage in IPL 2025

LSG’s complaints mirror those raised by other teams. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane and Eden Gardens curator Sujan Mukherjee were at odds after KKR’s struggles at home, with Mukherjee defending the pitch preparation process as per IPL regulations.

Similarly, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) coach Stephen Fleming had also recently criticised the Chepauk surface for not playing to their strengths despite traditionally favoring spin.

LSG’s struggles on the unexpected surface

Against PBKS, LSG posted 171/7, with Nicholas Pooran (44), Ayush Badoni (41), and Abdul Samad (27) making notable contributions.

However, Punjab’s chase was smooth, with Prabhsimran Singh (69), captain Shreyas Iyer (52*), and Nehal Wadhera (43*) ensuring victory with 22 balls to spare.

LSG’s bowlers failed to extract help from the pitch, as their spinners struggled while PBKS pacers—Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, and Marco Jansen—collectively took five wickets.

What’s next for LSG?

With two defeats in their first three matches, LSG must quickly adapt to their home conditions. They have three more home games in their next four fixtures, giving them a chance to recalibrate. Pant, who has struggled with the bat, also needs to find form, having managed just 17 runs across three innings so far.