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Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) endured a poor run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, ending the season with another defeat at home. After the seven-wicket loss to Punjab Kings (PBKS), questions are being raised in skipper Rishabh Pant’s direction as LSG ended up with a wooden spoon. LSG’s Director of Cricket, Tom Moody did not mince his words as he hinted at changes in the leadership after a horrendous season.
"From a captaincy point of view, you know, he's found it challenging, obviously, and the results reflect that," Moody said at the press conference after the loss to Punjab Kings (PBKS).
"And you do have to wonder whether that is a pressure that is reflected with his performance with the bat. I know that this season has been a difficult season for us, but we will reflect on it, we'll take time, we'll reflect on it. We'll consider all things.
"But certainly we haven't lived up to the expectation or the standard that we expect of ourselves. And certainly when it comes to the leadership of the franchise, it's certainly something that we'll be taking some very serious consideration to, you know, what it looks like in the future. Like every department, when you do reflect on a season, we will be making some considered decisions, but it certainly looks like that we're needing to consider a reset."
Pant’s season with bat
From 13 innings, Pant managed to score 312 runs at an average of 28.36 and strike rate of 138.05. He managed to score just one half-century in the season. Opening the innings, then batting at no.3, followed by the middle order. Pant did not get going after getting starts and his lack of form was one of the reasons why LSG finished 10th on the points table.
Moody says ‘we’re all responsible’
But, Moody does not want to point a finger at just Pant for LSG’s 10 losses in the season. He feels that the players and the coaching staff should take accountability and reflect on the season with a calm head on their shoulders.
"I think we're all responsible [for the disappointing season]. I don't think it's a time to point the finger at any individual. I think we all take accountability, and now's not the time to be apportioning blame in any particular department. We all need time to reflect on it in a calm manner, but there's certain things that we do need to address, and that will be addressed," said the former Australia pacer.
How LSG can free up over Rs 60 crore for next auction
LSG may look for a restructure before they head into the mini-auction for IPL 2027. They may consider releasing Pant, who was roped in for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore. Also, Nicholas Pooran at Rs 21 crore has been underwhelming. Pacer Mayank Yadav has not been a regular in the side at Rs 11 crore. There may be a discussion over Abdul Samad and Ayush Badoni as well.
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