Rishabh Pant’s struggles in IPL 2026 continue to raise serious concerns, with the Lucknow Super Giants skipper enduring a lean patch that is now impacting both his batting and leadership credentials. Bought for a staggering INR 27 crore, Pant has yet to justify his price tag this season, and his repeated failures are beginning to hurt LSG’s campaign at a crucial stage.
In the clash against the Rajasthan Royals in Lucknow, Pant once again faltered under pressure. Chasing a modest 160 on a tricky surface, he walked in with the responsibility of stabilising the innings but lasted just three balls. Attempting an unnecessary attacking shot early in his innings, Pant was caught by Dhruv Jurel off Nandre Burger, departing for a duck. The dismissal left both fans and commentators stunned, given the circumstances of the match and his role in the lineup.
WATCH – Rishabh Pant’s Run-Out Fumble Steals Spotlight Despite LSG’s Dominant Bowling
Pant’s visible frustration as he walked back to the dugout summed up his current mindset. However, the damage had already been done. Earlier in the innings, LSG were rocked by quick setbacks, with Ayush Badoni run out for a duck and Aiden Markram also falling cheaply to Jofra Archer, leaving the side reeling at 11/3 inside three overs.
Rishabh Pant ✅
Aiden Markram ✅Just the start @rajasthanroyals wanted with the ball 🩷
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/5SaPY8wfsc#TATAIPL | #KhelBindaas | #LSGvRR pic.twitter.com/A9vVrRyKxE
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 22, 2026
A recurring issue with Pant this season has been his tendency to take high-risk options too early, often without assessing match conditions. This approach has not only cost him his wicket but has also put additional pressure on the middle order. With LSG struggling for consistency, his form remains a major concern as the team fights to stay in playoff contention.
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Earlier, RR posted a competitive 159/6, thanks to a composed unbeaten 43 from Ravindra Jadeja, while Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shimron Hetmyer chipped in with useful contributions. For LSG, Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav and Mohsin Khan picked up two wickets each.
