NEW DELHI: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has questioned Rishabh Pant’s decision to step up to the top order, suggesting that the Lucknow Super Giants skipper may have “gone too far forward” in his batting position.Pant, who was run out for 7 off 9 balls in LSG’s IPL 2026 opener against Delhi Capitals, later indicated that he intends to bat in the top order this season. However, Pietersen believes the move could backfire.
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Mukul Choudhary on LSG’s game plan: foster partnership and stay fearless “Too much pressure at the top”“When you look at the strength and depth of LSG’s batting, is Rishabh Pant really the opening batsman?” Pietersen said. “I think he might have gone a little too far ahead of where he was in the lineup compared to last year.The former England star pointed out that Pant had previously fallen down the order but is now looking to move up again, a move he doesn’t see as ideal. “He needs to go out and enjoy his cricket,” Pietersen added, warning that forcing himself into the top three could pile on unnecessary pressure.“Don’t force yourself to bat at number three. Enjoy the luxury of that position. I think opening the bat puts him under enormous pressure,” he said.Rizvi deserves praise after the match-winning tapPietersen also heaped praise on young Delhi batsman Sameer Rizvi, who turned the match around with an unbeaten 70 after the Capitals were reduced to 26/4 in the chase of 142.“He played the situation beautifully and I’m not surprised,” said Pietersen, recalling his time mentoring the youngster. “This kid is a proper player and we will probably have to invest in him for some time.He emphasized the importance of supporting young talent, adding: “When you invest in a player, you need confidence that he can pay you back, and he did exactly that.”According to Pietersen, Rizvi’s drive to win a match under pressure in the season opener carries more weight than scoring freely in a high-scoring game, underscoring his temperament and potential.
