Lucknow is gearing up for what could easily become one of the most talked-about decisions of IPL 2026. Rishabh Pant—the ₹27 crore captain of Lucknow Super Giants—is set to walk in at No. 3.
This isn’t just a minor shuffle in the batting order. It’s a bold, high-stakes move that could shape the next phase of Pant’s career. After a 2025 season that never quite took off, he’s backing himself to rediscover the fearless, match-winning rhythm that once made him a nightmare for bowlers.
2025: A Season That Needed More
To understand why this shift matters, you have to look beyond the one standout knock and into the bigger picture.
Pant’s 2025 numbers told a story of inconsistency:
- Runs: 269 (well short of the 450+ expected from elite players)
- Strike Rate: 133.17 (below the 150+ benchmark for top T20 batters)
- Average: Around 22 (far from the 35+ mark)
- Highest Score: 118*
More often than not, Pant found himself walking in at tricky moments—either after early wickets or when the innings had already lost momentum. He was stuck between rebuilding and attacking, and that indecision showed.
Why No. 3 Makes Sense
This move isn’t just about giving Pant more time at the crease—it’s about putting him in the right situation to succeed.
1. Better Use of the Powerplay
At No. 3, Pant is likely to face at least a few deliveries with fielding restrictions still in place. That’s where his unconventional strokeplay—lap shots, one-handed sixes—becomes a real advantage rather than a risk.
2. Control Through the Middle Overs
The phase between overs 7 and 12 often slows teams down. If Pant is already set by then, he can take on spinners early and keep the scoreboard moving, instead of letting the innings drift.
3. A Clear Path Back to India Colours
With Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan piling on runs, Pant can’t rely on reputation anymore. He needs performances that combine stability with intent. Batting at No. 3 gives him the best chance to show he can do both.
The Bigger Impact: Freeing Up Nicholas Pooran
One of the smartest aspects of this move is what it does to the rest of the lineup.
- Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh can focus on giving solid starts.
- Pant at No. 3 becomes the glue, adjusting to the situation without slowing things down.
- Nicholas Pooran gets to do what he does best—finish games.
Instead of coming in early to repair damage, Pooran can now attack in the final overs, where he’s at his most dangerous. And that changes the entire dynamic of LSG’s batting.
A settled Pant controlling the middle overs and a fresh Pooran finishing the innings—that’s a combination most teams would struggle to contain.
Strength Beyond Batting
Of course, aggressive batting only works if the bowling unit can back it up.
That’s where LSG looks more complete this season. Mayank Yadav brings serious pace—consistently pushing 150 km/h—while Avesh Khan has grown into a reliable option at the death. Together, they give Pant the firepower needed to defend big totals.
Final Word: A Gamble Worth Taking
LSG’s opening game against Delhi Capitals carries extra weight. For Pant, it’s more than just another match—it’s a chance to face his past while leading a new chapter.
Make no mistake, this is a gamble. But the IPL has always rewarded players who are willing to take risks.
If Pant can combine his natural aggression with a bit more control at No. 3, this move could redefine his T20 career. And if that happens, Lucknow won’t just be aiming for the playoffs—they’ll be serious contenders for the title.
