Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 2: In New Delhi, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has raised concerns over Rishabh Pant’s decision to open the batting for Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League 2026 season.

Pant promoted himself to the top of the order during their clash against Delhi Capitals, but his innings ended prematurely in an unlucky run-out at the non-striker’s end. The dismissal occurred after a shot from Mitchell Marsh deflected off the bowler’s hand onto the stumps.

Pietersen believes the move may have added unnecessary pressure on Pant, especially given his inconsistent form in the previous season. He questioned whether Pant fits naturally into the opener’s role, suggesting that the wicketkeeper-batter might be better suited to a middle-order position where he can play with more freedom.

He pointed out that Pant had moved down the order last season and cautioned against making drastic positional changes. According to Pietersen, trying to take on the responsibility of opening could weigh heavily on the skipper and affect his overall performance.

Pant, who became the most expensive player in IPL history after being signed for ?27 crore by Lucknow, endured a mixed campaign last season. Although he managed to score a century, he finished with just 269 runs in 13 matches at an average of 24.45, with the hundred coming after the team was already out of playoff contention.

Meanwhile, Lucknow suffered a setback in their opening game this season, as Delhi comfortably chased down a target of 142 runs in just 17.1 overs.

Pant’s role at the top of the order is likely to remain under scrutiny when Lucknow Super Giants take on Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.