Kevin Pietersen Questions LSG Captain Rishabh Pant’s Batting Role After Flop Show

Kevin Pietersen raises concerns over Rishabh Pant’s move to open after a disappointing outing in IPL 2026.

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has expressed doubts over Rishabh Pant’s decision to open the batting for Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League 2026 season. The LSG skipper promoted himself to the top during the clash against Delhi Capitals, but the move didn’t yield results.

Pant’s stay at the crease was cut short in an unfortunate manner as he was run out at the non-striker’s end following a deflection off the bowler’s hand onto the stumps. The early dismissal added further scrutiny to his new role at the top of the order.

“When you look at the strength and depth of LSG’s batting, is Rishabh Pant really an opening batter? I think he might have gone a little too far ahead of where he was in the line-up compared to last year. Last year, he moved down the order, and now suddenly it’s, I’m going to come up to the top,” Pieterson was quoted as saying on Jio Hotstar.

Concerns Over Pressure and Batting Role

Pietersen further highlighted that opening the innings might be putting unnecessary pressure on Pant, who has shown more comfort in the middle order in previous seasons.

“I think he just needs to go out and enjoy his cricket. Don’t force yourself into batting at three; enjoy the luxury of that position. I think he puts himself under tremendous pressure by opening the batting,” he added.

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The discussion around Pant’s batting position has intensified, especially considering his inconsistent performances in recent times. Many believe that his aggressive style may be better suited to a role where he can counterattack rather than face the new ball.

Pant’s Numbers and LSG’s Struggles Continue

Pant’s record in the previous IPL season reflects a mixed campaign. Despite scoring a century, he managed only 269 runs in 13 matches at an average of 24.45. His big knock came when the team was already out of playoff contention, limiting its overall impact.

LSG’s start to IPL 2026 has also been underwhelming. The side suffered a defeat in their opening match after Delhi Capitals chased down a target of 142 comfortably in just 17.1 overs.

With an important clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad scheduled next, Pant’s role in the batting order will remain a major talking point as Lucknow aim to bounce back in the tournament.