₹27 crore misstep: Rishabh Pant abandons LSG captaincy after finishing last

LUCKNOW: In a major development ahead of the next Indian Premier League (IPL) cycle, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has stepped down from the captaincy. The franchise confirmed today that the management has formally accepted Pant's request to be relieved of his leadership duties with immediate effect. The announcement follows a highly disappointing IPL 2026 campaign for the Lucknow-based franchise. Confirming the transition, LSG's Director of Cricket, Tom Moody, expressed gratitude for Pant's leadership while emphasising a structural overhaul for the team. "Rishabh approached the franchisee with this request and we have respectfully accepted it," Moody said in an official statement. "These decisions are never easy. We are grateful for everything Rishabh has brought to this dressing room as captain. Our focus now is on the collective — rebuilding and restructuring to reach the best standards." Pant, who was secured by LSG for a record-breaking ₹27 crore purse, endured a challenging tenure at the helm. Under his stewardship over the past two seasons, the franchise failed to replicate its early tournament success, finishing seventh and tenth respectively. The 2026 season proved to be particularly bruising for the team, as LSG languished at the bottom of the points table with just four wins from 14 matches, missing the playoffs entirely. Pant's individual form also mirrored the team's struggles. Often regarded as one of the most destructive batsmen in the format, the left-hander managed a sub-par 312 runs across 14 outings at a strike rate of 138.05—marking one of the lowest statistical returns in his IPL career. While the franchise has stated that a new captain will be announced in due course, the immediate focus shifts to a massive rebuilding phase as LSG looks to restore its competitive edge in the upcoming season.