The anticipation surrounding the Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to grow as the 2026 season approaches, with fans eagerly waiting for another thrilling edition of the world’s most popular T20 franchise tournament. The new season is scheduled to begin on March 28, bringing together top international stars and emerging Indian talents in what promises to be a fiercely competitive campaign.
Every IPL season carries enormous expectations, not just for teams but also for star players who shoulder leadership responsibilities. With franchises assembling powerful squads and fine-tuning their strategies, discussions around team combinations and batting orders have already started gaining momentum. Former India batter Suresh Raina recently shared his thoughts on how the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) should structure their batting lineup, particularly regarding the role of their captain Rishabh Pant.
Suresh Raina picks the 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 could be more effective batting at No. 3 rather than lower down the order.
Raina explained that LSG’s middle order might struggle if early wickets fall, especially in high-scoring chases. To avoid a collapse and maintain momentum, he proposed a slightly reshuffled batting order.
“If four batters get out, there is a sort of commotion down the order. Abdul Samad has come after winning the Ranji Trophy, but when you chase 210 or 220, I feel they will have to tweak a little there. Get Rishabh Pant at No. 3 and play Nicholas Pooran at No. 4. Abdul Samad is at No. 5, and you will have to fit Ayush Badoni in between. You have a left-arm spinner in Shahbaz Ahmed, who also bats very well,” Raina said.
Raina further highlighted that Pant and Nicholas Pooran would have a crucial role if the openers fail to provide a solid start. He also expressed confidence that the LSG captain could adopt a more aggressive approach this season.
“They don’t have a heavy-hitter from No. 5 to No. 8. I feel that even if two players get out from the top, Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran have a very important role. He will have to justify his captaincy this time. I feel Rishabh will do slightly differently this season and will be more fearless this year,” Raina added.
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Star-studded side ready for the big challenge
LSG enter IPL 2026 with a powerful squad and renewed ambitions after a disappointing campaign last season. The franchise finished seventh in IPL 2025 and missed out on the playoffs, prompting them to reshape their squad for the upcoming tournament.
Pant will lead the side as captain after being retained for ₹27 crore, making him one of the most valuable players in the league. The team is also supported by strategic advisor Kane Williamson, whose experience is expected to help shape the team’s tactical approach.
LSG’s biggest strength lies in its pace attack, which could arguably be one of the fastest bowling units in IPL history. The lineup features the exciting pace of Mayank Yadav along with international stars Anrich Nortje and Mohammed Shami.
Their batting unit is equally formidable, boasting big hitters like Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh alongside Pooran. Meanwhile, Wanindu Hasaranga adds quality spin and valuable lower-order batting.
Despite the star power, questions remain about the injury history of some key fast bowlers and the lack of experienced finishers in the lower middle order. Lucknow will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 1, hoping their high-risk, high-reward strategy can finally deliver their maiden IPL title.
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