Lucknow: Rishabh Pant did not hold back in his assessment of Lucknow Super Giants after their fourth consecutive loss in the Indian Premier League 2026 season, admitting that the team’s batting failures were “difficult to explain”.

Chasing a modest target of 160 against Rajasthan Royals at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow collapsed for just 119 in 18 overs, continuing a worrying losing streak and exposing serious concerns in their batting unit.

Top-order collapse derails chase

Lucknow Super Giants’ chase got off to the worst possible start, with key batters Ayush Badoni, Pant, and Aiden Markram all dismissed for ducks during the Powerplay.

The early collapse left the team struggling to recover, as the required run rate climbed steadily on a pitch that offered assistance to bowlers. Despite having a strong batting line-up on paper, LSG failed to build any meaningful partnerships at the top.

Pant criticises batting unit

Speaking after the match, Pant openly criticised the team’s batting approach, including his own performance, stating that the batters had let down the bowlers who had done an excellent job earlier.

“I think it is difficult to explain. Our batting is letting us down. We have to look for answers within. We could have taken more time, but I’m not making excuses. Our bowlers did a fantastic job,” Pant said.

Despite the repeated setbacks, the LSG skipper expressed belief in the team’s capabilities. “We know we have the firepower and we want to believe in it,” he added.

Bowlers deliver, but efforts go in vain

Earlier in the match, LSG’s bowlers had produced a disciplined performance to restrict Rajasthan Royals to 159/6.

Pacers Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, and Prince Yadav picked up two wickets each, ensuring the Royals did not run away with a big total.

However, their efforts were overshadowed by the batting collapse that followed.

Marsh fights lone battle

In an otherwise disappointing chase, Mitchell Marsh stood out with a fighting knock of 55 off 41 balls. He attempted to stabilise the innings even as wickets fell at the other end.

However, lack of support from fellow batters such as Nicholas Pooran and Himmat Singh, who perished to poor shot selection, meant Marsh’s effort went in vain.

Questions over team strategy

LSG’s team selection and tactical decisions are also likely to come under scrutiny following the defeat. The use of Himmat Singh as an Impact Substitute has raised questions, given his modest domestic strike rate and limited impact in high-pressure situations.

Additionally, Mukul Choudhary continues to struggle at this level, particularly against short-pitched deliveries, highlighting areas that require immediate improvement.

Poor home record continues

The defeat further extends Lucknow’s disappointing run at home, with the team yet to register a win at the Ekana Cricket Stadium this season.

The inability to adapt to home conditions, combined with inconsistent batting performances, has put LSG in a difficult position in the points table as the tournament progresses.

Conclusion

Rishabh Pant’s candid remarks reflect the growing frustration within the Lucknow Super Giants camp as their campaign continues to falter. While the bowlers have consistently delivered, the batting unit’s repeated failures have cost the team dearly.

If LSG are to revive their season, a swift turnaround in batting form and better execution under pressure will be crucial in the matches ahead.