surrounding anticipation Indian Premier League (IPL) As the 2026 season approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting another exciting edition of the tournament for the world’s most popular T20 franchise. The new season is set to begin on March 28, bringing together top international stars and emerging Indian talent in what promises to be a highly competitive campaign.
Every IPL season carries a lot of expectations not only for the teams but also for the star players who take up the leadership responsibilities. With franchises assembling powerful teams and improving their strategies, discussions about team combinations and batting order have already started gaining momentum. Former Indian batsman Suresh Raina recently shared his thoughts on how Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) He must structure his batting lineup, especially with regard to his captain’s role. Rishabh Pant.
Suresh Raina picks batting order for Rishabh Pant in LSG lineup
During a discussion on Star Sports, Raina suggested that Lucknow should consider promoting Pant up the batting order to maximize his impact. According to the former Chennai Super Kings star, Pant can be more effective batting at No. 3 rather than lower down the order.
Raina pointed out that if early wickets fall, LSG’s middle order may struggle, especially while chasing a high-scoring target. To avoid collapse and maintain momentum, he proposed a slight reshuffle of the batting order.
“If four batsmen are out, there is kind of a stir in the lower order. Abdul Samad has come from winning the Ranji Trophy, but when you are chasing 210 or 220, I think he has to make a bit of a change there. Take Rishabh Pant at No. 3 and play Nicholas Pooran at No. 4. Abdul Samad is at No. 5, and you have to fit Ayush Badoni in the middle. You have Shahbaz Ahmed in the form of He is a left-arm spinner who also bats.” Very good,” Raina said.
Raina further said that Pant and Nicholas Pooran will have an important role to play if the openers fail to provide a solid start. He also expressed confidence that the LSG captain can adopt a more aggressive approach this season.
“They don’t have any heavy-hitters from No. 5 to No. 8. I think even if two players drop out from the top, Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran have a very important role to play. They have to justify their captaincy this time. I think Rishabh will perform a little differently this season and will be more fearless this year.” Raina added.
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Star studded team ready for big challenge
After a disappointing campaign last season, LSG is entering IPL 2026 with a powerful squad and new ambitions. The franchise finished seventh in IPL 2025 and missed the playoffs, prompting them to revamp their squad for the upcoming tournament.
Retained for ₹27 crore, Pant will lead the team as captain, making him one of the most valuable players in the league. The team is also supported by a strategic advisor kane williamsonWhose experience is expected to help shape the strategic vision of the team.
LSG’s biggest strength lies in its pace attack, which could arguably be one of the fastest bowling units in IPL history. Lineup features exciting pace Mayank Yadav with international stars Enrique Nortje And Mohammed Shami.
Their batting unit is equally strong, including big hitters aiden markram And Michelle Marsh With Puran. During this time, Wanindu Hasaranga Adds quality spin and valuable lower-order batting.
Despite the star power, questions remain over the injury history of some key fast bowlers and the lack of experienced finishers in the lower middle order. Will start their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Delhi Capitals On April 1, there are hopes that their high-risk, high-reward strategy can finally deliver their first IPL title.
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