IPL 2026: 3 reasons why Rishabh Pant should step down from LSG captaincy

Rishabh Pant continues to struggle with the bat in IPL 2026.

Rishabh Pant is facing severe criticism in the Indian Premier League 2026. Pant-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are struggling badly in the ongoing edition. LSG are sitting at the bottom of the table with just 4 points in 9 games. 

They have lost six matches in a row. The team has looked out of balance in both batting and bowling. Many experts believe that the pressure of captaincy is affecting Pant’s performance in the league.

Rishabh’s decisions on the field have also raised questions. As a result, there is growing talk that he should step down as captain and focus only on his batting.

Reasons Rishabh Pant should step down as captain

Rishabh Pant’s struggle with form in IPL 2026

Pant has not been at his best with the bat this season. He has scored only 204 runs in nine matches. His average of 25 is low for a top-order batter. His strike rate is also below expectations. Pant is known for his aggressive batting style.

However, this season, he has failed to finish games. He has scored only one half-century so far and smashed only 7 sixes. His lack of runs has hurt the team in key moments. In such a scenario, if he steps down from captaincy, he may play with more freedom and confidence.

Pant’s poor tactical decisions

Pant’s captaincy has also been questioned this season. His bowling changes have often looked confusing. Field placements have not been effective. At times, he has not used his main bowlers properly.

Critics say his decisions lack clear planning, and a moment that has come to the spotlight is his decision to send Nicholas Pooran to take the strike in the super over against KKR ahead of in-form hitters like Mitchell Marsh and Mukul Choudhary. This has shown his unclear thinking on the field. A captain needs to be calm and decisive. 

LSG’s poor performances in consecutive seasons

LSG‘s results under Pant have not been impressive. In IPL 2025, the team finished seventh with 12 points. Now in IPL 2026, they are at the bottom of the table. This shows a clear decline. The team has not improved under his leadership.

There are experienced players in the squad who can lead better. Giving captaincy to someone else like Aiden Markram, could help the team reset. Pant can then focus on his batting and regain his best form.

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