RCB vs LSG Scorecard: After sustaining a painful blow to his elbow during the IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant left the field, ‘retired hurt.’
The incident occurred during the fifth over of LSG’s innings at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Josh Hazlewood—returning to the RCB playing XI—delivered a fast, ‘hard-length’ delivery that struck Pant near his left elbow.
What Happened to Rishabh Pant?
Pant came in to bat during the power play but faced immediate trouble against pace bowler Josh Hazlewood.
- He struggled to score, playing three consecutive dot balls
- During this short stay, he was hit multiple times by short-pitched deliveries
- One delivery struck him hard on the elbow, causing visible pain
- The physio rushed in, but Pant could not continue and walked off
Reports confirm he faced only a few balls before retiring hurt, clearly uncomfortable and unable to play his shots.
The Exact Moment of Injury
The key moment came in the 5th over:
- Hazlewood bowled a sharp short ball
- Pant attempted a pull shot but missed and got hit directly on the elbow
- He immediately reacted in pain, holding his arm
- After a brief treatment on the field, he decided to leave the match
This was not a minor knock. His body language made it clear the impact was serious enough to stop him from continuing.
RCB vs LSG Scorecard: Why Did He Retire Hurt After Just 3 Balls?
This is what made the situation unusual:
- Pant hadn’t settled at the crease
- He had not scored any runs
- Yet he still chose to walk off
The reason is simple:
The pain from the elbow blow made it impossible for him to bat properly, especially against high pace and bounce.
Even commentators noted that two of those early deliveries had already hit his body, building pressure before the final blow forced him out.
Can Rishabh Pant Bat Again After Retiring Hurt?
Yes, and this is important.
- “Retired hurt” means he is not out
- He can return later in the innings if fit
- The decision depends on medical assessment and the match situation
In fact, later updates suggest Pant did attempt a comeback, but he couldn’t make a big impact.
RCB vs LSG Scorecard: Impact on LSG in the Match
Pant’s injury had a direct effect on Lucknow Super Giants:
- The team lost its captain early
- The middle order came under pressure
- Nicholas Pooran had to step in earlier than expected
- Tactical plans had to be adjusted instantly
In T20 cricket, especially in the power play, losing a key batter like Pant can change the entire momentum.
Related Article: RR vs RCB IPL 2026 Match Preview (10 April 2026): Venue, Playing XI Prediction
Bigger Concern: Injury Ahead of IPL 2026 Season
This incident is more than just one match issue:
- Pant is a key player and captain
- Any elbow injury can affect batting control and power
- LSG is already dealing with squad issues this season
If the injury turns out to be serious, it could impact:
- Upcoming matches
- Team balance
- Playoff chances
Know More: https://www.iplt20.com/matches/fixtures
