LSG Playoff Hopes Fade as Coach Bharat Arun Defends Record-Signing Rishabh Pant Ahead of MI Clash
MUMBAI — The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) face elimination from the 2026 Indian Premier League playoffs after recording six losses in their first eight matches. The team’s top-order struggles have exposed structural weaknesses, placing immense scrutiny on captain Rishabh Pant.
Rishabh Pant’s Form Under the Microscope
Acquired for a record Rs 27 crore ahead of the 2025 season, Pant has struggled to match expectations. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter trained with former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh during the offseason to refine his white-ball technique. However, his current campaign features just 189 runs in eight matches, including a single half-century.
| Season | Matches | Runs | Batting Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPL 2025 | 14 | 269 | 24.45 | 133.16 |
| IPL 2026 | 8 | 189 | 27.00 | 126.84 |
Despite shifting from the opening slot back to the middle order, his strike rate remains a primary concern for the franchise. Addressing the media before LSG’s critical matchup against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium, LSG bowling coach Bharat Arun dismissed claims that the historic auction price is causing mental fatigue.
“I do not think the price tag has anything to do with it,” Arun stated. “If you look at the second game we played, he took us across the finish line. I am not concerned about his form. He is just one innings away from returning to his best.”
Fast Bowling Updates: Shami, Yadav, and Khan
While the batting order struggles, LSG’s bowling attack offers measurable stability. Arun provided definitive updates on the team’s core pace battery, focusing on veteran leadership and returning prospects.
- Mohammed Shami: The veteran pacer has secured seven wickets in eight matches. Arun commended his clear mindset and control over match execution.
- Mayank Yadav: The tearaway fast bowler is fully cleared for action. Arun confirmed Yadav is bowling at high speeds and operating at peak match fitness.
- Mohsin Khan & Prince Yadav: Both young quicks have taken increased responsibilities. The franchise implemented a careful workload management program for Mohsin over the past several months to prevent recurring injuries.
LSG must now win their remaining six fixtures to secure a minimum of 16 points, the traditional threshold for playoff qualification in the BCCI-administered tournament. Their immediate challenge rests at the Wankhede Stadium, where pitch conditions typically favor teams with aggressive top-order batters and high-pace bowling attacks.