Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Rishabh Pant needs to adjust his batting style as he prepares for the IPL 2026 season with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Pant, who captains LSG, struggled last season, scoring only 269 runs in 14 matches. His standout performance was an unbeaten 118 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the final match.
Chopra says Pant’s reputation for playing unconventional shots has put pressure on him to perform differently. “He needs to grind out runs when needed instead of taking unnecessary risks,” Chopra noted. Last season, despite chances to rebuild his form, Pant continued with risky batting, leading to criticism.
Pant hasn’t been part of the India T20I team since July 2024. After winning the 2024 T20 World Cup with India, he lost his spot to players like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. Chopra explains that selectors are now focusing on keepers who can bat in the middle order or open.
Pant’s relationship with former coach Rahul Dravid was tense due to their differing views on batting. However, Chopra credits Pant for his unique perspective on the game, which sets him apart from traditional players.
Looking ahead, Chopra sees hope in Pant’s decision to seek guidance from former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh. “It’s a positive sign that he acknowledges the need for improvement,” Chopra said. With his talent, Pant should excel in white-ball cricket, according to Chopra.
Lucknow Super Giants will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on April 1 against Delhi Capitals at home.
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**IPL 2026: Aakash Chopra advises Rishabh Pant to rethink his batting approach**
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Rishabh Pant needs to adjust his batting style as he prepares for the IPL 2026 season with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Pant, who captains LSG, struggled last season, scoring only 269 runs in 14 matches. His standout performance was an unbeaten 118 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the final match.
Chopra says Pant’s reputation for playing unconventional shots has put pressure on him to perform differently. “He needs to grind out runs when needed instead of taking unnecessary risks,” Chopra noted. Last season, despite chances to rebuild his form, Pant continued with risky batting, leading to criticism.
Pant hasn’t been part of the India T20I team since July 2024. After winning the 2024 T20 World Cup with India, he lost his spot to players like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. Chopra explains that selectors are now focusing on keepers who can bat in the middle order or open.
Pant’s relationship with former coach Rahul Dravid was tense due to their differing views on batting. However, Chopra credits Pant for his unique perspective on the game, which sets him apart from traditional players.
Looking ahead, Chopra sees hope in Pant’s decision to seek guidance from former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh. “It’s a positive sign that he acknowledges the need for improvement,” Chopra said. With his talent, Pant should excel in white-ball cricket, according to Chopra.
Lucknow Super Giants will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on April 1 against Delhi Capitals at home.