Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his thoughts about Rishabh Pant’s role for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026. He believes Pant can return to his best batting form with the help of Yuvraj Singh’s guidance.
Pant was one of the most expensive players in the IPL mega auction, bought for Rs 27 crore. However, his performance in IPL 2025 did not match expectations.
Ashwin said that working with Yuvraj Singh could help Pant regain confidence and improve his batting before the new season.
Ashwin Talks About Yuvraj Singh’s Influence
Ashwin explained that Yuvraj Singh’s coaching could have a strong positive effect on Pant’s game. He described it as the “Midas touch” that Pant might need to find his rhythm again.
Pant has reportedly been practicing with Yuvraj Singh before IPL 2026. Ashwin believes this guidance could help the wicketkeeper-batter overcome the struggles he faced last season.
According to Ashwin, the key is to give Pant a clear batting role where he can make the biggest impact.
Ashwin Suggests Pant Should Bat in Top Order
Ashwin believes Pant should not bat too low in the batting order for Lucknow Super Giants.
He suggested that Pant should either open the innings or bat at number three in IPL 2026. In his opinion, Pant’s aggressive style suits the top order where he can face more deliveries.
Ashwin also said that batting lower in the order might limit Pant’s ability to influence the match.
Pant’s Performance in IPL 2025
Rishabh Pant had a difficult IPL 2025 season overall. He played 14 matches and scored 296 runs during the campaign.
Despite the struggles, he produced one outstanding innings. In Lucknow Super Giants’ final match of the season, Pant scored an unbeaten 118, which became the highlight of his year.
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Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 Stats
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Matches | 14 |
| Runs | 296 |
| Best Score | 118* |
| Auction Price | Rs 27 crore |
The century showed Pant’s potential, even though the rest of the season was inconsistent.
Pant’s Batting Positions in the IPL
Pant has batted in several positions during his IPL career. His statistics show different levels of success depending on where he bats.
Pant IPL Batting Position Record
| Batting Position | Matches | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Opener (1–2) | 5 | 125 |
| No. 3 | 15 | 558 |
| No. 4 | — | Over 4000 |
Pant has scored the majority of his IPL runs while batting at number four, which has traditionally been his most productive position.
However, Ashwin believes a promotion up the order could help Pant play more freely.
LSG Top Order and Possible Changes
Lucknow Super Giants currently have a strong top order. Players like Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh have been important contributors at the top of the batting lineup.
Because of this, the team management may need to make adjustments if they decide to move Pant higher in the order.
The discussion now revolves around whether Pant should open the innings or bat at number three during IPL 2026.
IPL 2026 could be an important season for Rishabh Pant and Lucknow Super Giants. If Pant finds his form again, he can become one of the most dangerous batters in the league.
Ashwin’s suggestion highlights the importance of using Pant in a role where he can have the biggest impact.
With guidance from Yuvraj Singh and a clear batting position, Pant will aim to deliver strong performances for LSG in the upcoming season.
