Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant is preparing for a big IPL 2026 season. The wicketkeeper-batter is currently the most expensive player in the league and will carry both leadership and performance pressure for his team.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra recently shared his thoughts on Pant’s batting style and current situation in international cricket. According to Chopra, Pant is struggling because of the reputation he built as an aggressive and unconventional batter.
Chopra Says Pant Is “A Prisoner of His Reputation”
Aakash Chopra said that Rishabh Pant’s attacking reputation has started working against him. Pant is known for playing fearless shots and taking risks at the crease, but Chopra believes that approach sometimes hurts his team.
He explained that Pant often tries to hit big shots even when the match situation requires patience and stability.
According to Chopra, Pant had several chances last season to rebuild his form by spending more time at the crease. Instead, he continued playing risky shots, which led to criticism from fans and experts.
Chopra’s Main Concern
| Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Aggressive approach | Pant plays attacking shots even in difficult situations |
| Lack of patience | Rarely slows down to build an innings |
| High expectations | His reputation increases scrutiny |
Chopra believes this pattern has made Pant one of the most closely watched players in Indian cricket.
Pant Currently Out of India’s White-Ball Plans
Another major point raised by Chopra was Pant’s absence from India’s current white-ball plans.
Pant was part of India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad earlier, but he is now out of the national selection picture. Chopra said this change shows how quickly situations can shift in international cricket.
Pant’s Current Situation
| Area | Status |
|---|---|
| IPL team | Lucknow Super Giants |
| IPL role | Captain |
| India white-ball team | Not currently in plans |
| Challenge | Regain form and consistency |
Chopra pointed out that while the IPL is an important tournament, representing India remains the biggest goal for any cricketer.
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Conversations with Rahul Dravid
Chopra also mentioned that Pant’s batting approach had earlier raised concerns within the Indian team management.
He said that during Rahul Dravid’s time as India’s head coach, there were discussions about Pant’s shot selection and approach at the crease.
Pant’s unique way of seeing the game is very different from traditional batting styles. While this approach has produced spectacular innings in the past, it has also led to inconsistency.
Pant Seeks Guidance from Yuvraj Singh
In an effort to improve his game, Rishabh Pant has reportedly approached former India star Yuvraj Singh for guidance.
Yuvraj has been mentoring several young cricketers and is known for helping players develop both technical and mental strength.
Chopra described Pant’s decision to seek help as a positive step.
Why Pant’s Move Matters
| Factor | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Mentorship | Guidance from experienced players |
| Technical improvement | Better shot selection |
| Mental approach | Stronger match awareness |
Chopra believes Pant has the talent to dominate white-ball cricket, but he must refine his approach.
Pant’s Last Match for India
Rishabh Pant’s most recent appearance for India came during the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati in November 2025.
Pant’s Last International Match
| Match | Venue | Scores |
|---|---|---|
| India vs South Africa, 2nd Test | Guwahati | 7 and 13 |
Since then, Pant has not been part of India’s national team setup.
A Big Season Ahead for Pant
IPL 2026 will be an important tournament for Rishabh Pant. As captain of Lucknow Super Giants, he must lead the team while also improving his own performances.
The season could become a turning point in his career if he manages to balance his natural attacking style with better game awareness.
Strong performances in the IPL may also help him return to India’s national team in the future.
Conclusion
Rishabh Pant enters IPL 2026 under heavy scrutiny but also with a big opportunity. Aakash Chopra’s comments highlight the expectations around the star wicketkeeper-batter.
Pant’s leadership role at Lucknow Super Giants and his efforts to improve his game could define the next phase of his career.
If he finds the right balance between aggression and patience, IPL 2026 could mark the start of a strong comeback for one of India’s most exciting cricketers.
