Rishabh Pant's Comeback Journey: Key Strategies for IPL Success

Rishabh Pant, captain of Lucknow Super Giants, is focused on making a strong comeback to India's white-ball team during the upcoming IPL season. With insights from former player Yuvraj Singh and advice from Irfan Pathan, Pant aims to enhance his performance by batting at No. 3. As he navigates the pressures of leadership, his ability to enjoy the game will be crucial. With a solid track record in the IPL, Pant is determined to elevate his game and lead his team to playoff success. Discover the strategies he plans to implement for a successful season ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 26, 2026, 19:29 IST

Rishabh Pant's Crucial IPL Comeback

The captain of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Rishabh Pant, is determined to reclaim his spot in India's white-ball squad, making the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) a pivotal moment for him. After being part of India's victorious T20 World Cup team in 2024, Pant has since lost his position due to the rise of players like Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson in T20 cricket. His last ODI appearance was against Sri Lanka in August 2024, and his most recent T20 match for India was in July 2024 at Pallekele.

Former Indian fast bowler Irfan Pathan has suggested that Pant should bat at No. 3 for LSG, advocating for Nicholas Pooran to move down the batting order. Pathan emphasized the significance of Pant batting during the powerplay. He recounted discussions with Yuvraj Singh, a key player in India's World Cup victories in 2007 and 2011, who focused on the mental aspects of the game during their sessions together.

Pathan's Advice: Bat at No. 3

"It's crucial for Rishabh Pant to bat in the powerplay. While Nicholas Pooran has previously batted at No. 3, I believe Pant should be secured in that position to maximize his opportunities. After his time with Yuvraj Singh, I learned that their discussions were more about mental preparation than technical skills, dedicating several hours to this aspect," Pathan shared on his YouTube channel.

Leadership and Responsibility for Pant

As the captain, Pant carries the weight of ensuring his team's playoff qualification. His time with Yuvraj Singh could provide him with valuable insights to implement in the upcoming IPL season. Pathan observed that Pant appeared to be under significant pressure last year and wasn't fully enjoying the game, which is essential for his performance.

Insights from Yuvraj Singh

"Rishabh Pant will face considerable responsibility. We need to see how he leads the team to qualification. From what I've observed, he seems fitter and more focused. His time spent with Yuvraj Singh should help him apply those lessons on the field. Last year, he seemed burdened and not enjoying cricket, which is vital for his success," Pathan remarked.

Pant has played 125 IPL matches, accumulating 3,553 runs with an average of 34.16 and a strike rate of 147.62, including two centuries, one of which was scored last season. Pathan believes that Pant, as a seasoned player, must elevate his game further. LSG finished seventh in the previous season, winning six out of 14 matches.

"Rishabh Pant has proven himself in this league with an average of 34 and a strike rate around 150, totaling 3,500 runs. This demonstrates his impact in the league. While he has delivered match-winning performances, he needs to take it to the next level," Pathan concluded.