LSG vs SRH: Eshan Malinga's stunning catch compounds Rishabh Pant's horror show
Sri Lanka fast bowler Eshan Malinga joined the list of contenders for the best catch of the IPL 2025 season, pulling off a stunning grab for SunRisers Hyderabad against Lucknow Super Giants in Lucknow on Monday, 19 May.The catch came at a particularly unfortunate moment for Rishabh Pant, who was looking to find form after promoting himself to No. 3 in his first match since the resumption of the IPL. | LSG vs SRH, IPL 2025 coverage |advertisementPant looked scratchy at the crease following a sensational 115-run opening partnership between Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram. His decision to bat ahead of Nicholas Pooran-LSG's most dangerous big-hitter-raised eyebrows. Despite his efforts to play aggressively and display more positive body language, Pant managed only 7 runs off six deliveries.
Off the final delivery of the 12th over, Pant was deceived by a slower ball from the Sri Lankan pacer. Beaten for pace, he chipped the ball straight back towards the bowler. Eshan produced a moment of brilliance, diving to his left and taking a spectacular one-handed catch.With minimal time to react, Eshan timed his dive perfectly, completing one of the finest return catches of the season.Magnificent Malinga!Athleticism on display from Eshan Malinga as he grabs a stunner to send back Rishabh Pant! #LSG 133/2 after 13 overs.Updates https://t.co/GNnZh90u7T#TATAIPL | #LSGvSRH | @SunRisers pic.twitter.com/5rSouA8Kw0— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 19, 2025advertisementPant looked dejected, unable to believe his misfortune. The LSG captain slowly trudged back to the pavilion, as reactions from the Lucknow dugout also appeared subdued.It has been Pant's worst IPL season to date, falling short of expectations at his new franchise. The weight of his hefty price tag seems to be affecting his performance, as he continues to struggle with form.Earlier in the season, Pant faced criticism for demoting himself down the batting order and sending in-form players ahead of him. Yet, when he finally chose to step up and take responsibility, luck failed to favour him.Pant has managed only 135 runs in 12 matches, at a dismal average of 12.27 and a strike rate of just 100. His lack of confidence has been evident in his body language-far removed from the flamboyant wicketkeeper-batter known for his fearless stroke play.Despite Pant's continued struggles, Nicholas Pooran's brisk cameo helped Lucknow Super Giants post a competitive total of 205. SunRisers Hyderabad, however, let the game slip in the death overs, lacking discipline with the ball and missing the chance to restrict LSG to under 190. Eshan stood out for SunRisers with the ball taking two wickets and conceding less than 7 runs per over in his four-over quota.Stay updated on IPL 2025 with India Today! Get match schedules, team squads, live score, and the latest IPL points table for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Plus, keep track of the top contenders for the IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap. Don't miss a moment!Must Watch
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