Rishabh Pant’s decision to step down as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain may have ended one chapter, but it has now opened an even bigger question mark regarding his future at the franchise.
In one of the biggest developments of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 offseason, Pant personally approached the franchise management requesting to be relieved from captaincy duties, and the management accepted the request.
However, reports now suggest that the wicketkeeper-batter’s place in the squad itself may not be secure going into next season as LSG management reportedly considers a major restructuring process after two disastrous campaigns under Pant’s leadership.
Rishabh Pant could face release after disappointing LSG stint
After being bought for a record-breaking INR 27 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction, Pant was handed the responsibility of leading the Lucknow-based franchise.
But things never truly clicked for either Pant or LSG. Under his captaincy, the franchise endured two miserable seasons and failed to establish itself as a playoff contender despite boasting a star-studded squad.
In IPL 2025, LSG managed to win only six out of 14 matches and finished seventh in the points table, missing out on the playoffs.
Also Read: Big News: Rishabh Pant steps down as LSG captain after horrendous campaign in IPL 2026
The situation worsened dramatically during IPL 2026 as the franchise completely collapsed and eventually finished at the bottom of the table with just four wins and ten defeats in 14 matches.
Reports suggest that LSG management is now seriously debating whether Rishabh Pant’s massive price tag justifies his overall contribution to the side.
While no official decision has been taken yet, releasing the India star ahead of next season is reportedly one of the options being actively discussed within the franchise setup.
Interestingly, the franchise could still attempt to bring Pant back during the auction — but potentially at a significantly lower price.
With experienced names like Tom Moody, Justin Langer and Kane Williamson involved in the think tank, LSG are believed to be prioritising better squad value and long-term rebuilding plans.
Pant struggled both as batter and captain for LSG
Pant’s performances over the last two seasons have failed to match the expectations that came with his historic price tag. Across 28 matches as captain of Lucknow Super Giants, the left-hander scored only 581 runs at an average of 26.40 and a strike rate of 135.74.
Also Read: Who will replace Rishabh Pant as LSG's new captain? Three stars lead the race
His captaincy record also paints a disappointing picture. Rishabh Pant managed just 10 wins in 28 matches as LSG skipper, resulting in a poor win percentage of 35.71.
This season, his batting numbers once again remained underwhelming. The 28-year-old scored 312 runs in 14 matches at an average of 28.36 and a strike rate of 138.05 while managing only one half-century throughout the campaign.