New Delhi: Former England captain Kevin Peterson But doubts have arisen. Rishabh PantDeciding to promote himself in the top order, the Lucknow Supergiants skipper suggested “a bit too far” in his batting position.Pant, who was run out for 7 off 9 balls in LSG’s IPL 2026 opener against Delhi Capitals, later hinted that he intends to bat in the top order this season. However, Patterson believes the move could backfire.
‘Most stressful’“Is Rishabh Pant really an opening batsman when you look at the strength and depth of LSG’s batting?” Patterson said. “I think he might have gone a little bit further than where he was in the lineup last year.”The former England star pointed out that Pant had earlier dropped down the order but is now trying to move up again, a change which he feels may not be ideal. “He just needs to go out and enjoy his cricket,” Pietersen added, warning that forcing himself into a top-three role could cause unnecessary pressure.“Don’t force yourself to bat at number three. Enjoy the luxury of that position. I think he puts himself under a lot of pressure by opening the batting,” he said.Rizvi has praised after the match-winning innings.Pietersen also praised young Delhi batsman Sameer Rizvi, who turned the game around with an unbeaten 70 after the Capitals were reduced to 26/4 chasing 142.“He played the situation beautifully, and I’m not surprised,” Patterson said, recalling his time mentoring the youngster. “This kid is a decent player, and we probably need to invest in him for some time.”He emphasized the importance of backing young talent, adding, “When you invest in a player, you need to have faith that he can pay you back, and he has done exactly that.”According to Pietersen, Rizvi’s match-winning effort under pressure in the season opener carried more weight than a free-scoring effort in a high-scoring game, which illustrates his temperament and ability.
