Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Rishabh Pant to open the innings for LSG in IPL 2026. Ashwin reckons if the LSG captain doesn’t open the innings, it will be the biggest blunder of the season.

The former CSK spinner said if LSG has to go deep in the tournament, Pant must open the innings for the franchise. Pant had a disappointing season in IPL 2025, scoring 269 runs in 13 innings at an average of 24.45.

On the other hand, Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram provided solid starts for LSG in the previous season and played a key role in the team’s success. While Marsh scored 627 runs in the tournament, Markram amassed 445 runs.

Ashwin said on his YouTube Channel, “They have a solid team, but they always find a way to make tactical mistakes. They seem to have four players who should pad up to open as they are all fighting for the opening spot. If Rishabh Pant plays anywhere but opening, it is the biggest blunder of the season. LSG stands a chance only if Rishabh opens and scores big runs, upward of 500 to 600.”

Ashwin said Nicholas Pooran’s recent poor form could be a cause of concern for the franchise in IPL 2026.

“Nicholas Pooran hasn’t scored a run in any of the leagues in the last six months. He looks like a defeated player sometimes. Last IPL itself, he had two halves of the tournament. He started brilliantly and then tapered off. By playing around the calendar in leagues, he looks mentally tired.”

The former CSK all-rounder said LSG will have a chance if Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad and Rishabh Pant perform consistently.

“They will be looking towards Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad and Rishabh Pant. If these three batters have good seasons, LSG have a chance. Otherwise, they will finish at the back half of the table. LSG have made lot of tactical errors. Even if they don’t do anything outstanding, it is imperative they avoid mistakes.”

LSG will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against the Delhi Capitals on 1st April at Lucknow.