In a tense moment during Wednesday's IPL clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants, skipper Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt after a painful blow to his elbow, disrupting LSG's early momentum in a crucial match.

Coming in to bat under pressure, Pant struggled against the pace and bounce of RCB's Josh Hazlewood, facing three consecutive dot balls. The situation escalated quickly on the first delivery of the fifth over when a sharp short delivery struck Pant directly on his left elbow. Replays showed a clear and painful impact, leaving the star wicketkeeper-batter in visible distress.

After immediate on-field treatment and a sportsmanlike pat on the back from Hazlewood, a visibly emotional Pant had to walk off, replaced by Nicholas Pooran. The injury not only halted Pant's personal innings but also shifted the game's momentum, posing a significant challenge for LSG's middle order in a high-stakes tournament where every run and wicket counts.