Rishabh Pant hits back at claims of LSG release ahead of IPL 2026

Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant has firmly denied swirling rumours suggesting he would be released by the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Labeling the speculation as `fake news`, Pant took to social media to shut down reports questioning his future with the team after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign.

Pant’s underwhelming form with the bat proved costly for LSG, who were knocked out of playoff contention following a decisive loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Bought for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore, the highest-ever bid in IPL auction history, Pant was expected to be the cornerstone of the franchise’s ambitions this season. However, he failed to live up to expectations, scoring just 135 runs from 135 balls across 12 matches.

The controversy erupted after a user on X (formerly Twitter) claimed that LSG was planning to release Pant ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, citing concerns over his price tag and return on investment. The post quickly gained traction, prompting a swift rebuttal from the LSG skipper himself.

The X post on Rishabh Pant which was later deleted

I understand fake News gives more traction To content but let’s not built everything around it . Little sense and credible news will help more rather making fake news with agenda . Thanks have a good day . Let’s be responsible and sensible what we put out on social media 🇮🇳🙏🏻

— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) May 22, 2025

Responding ahead of Lucknow`s final group-stage match against Gujarat Titans, Pant cautioned against the dangers of misinformation and urged social media users to act responsibly. “I understand fake News gives more traction To content but let’s not built everything around it . Little sense and credible news will help more rather making fake news with agenda . Thanks have a good day . Let’s be responsible and sensible what we put out on social media,” Pant wrote.

The 2025 season was anticipated to be a fresh chapter for Pant, marking his return to competitive cricket with a new franchise after previously representing Delhi Capitals. However, his campaign was marred by inconsistency.

Apart from a lone half-century, Pant struggled to find rhythm, finishing with a batting average just above 12. His role in the batting order often remained uncertain, with the team frequently deploying him lower down the lineup in critical matches.

This poor run of form in the IPL mirrors his recent struggles in white-ball cricket for India, where he has yet to cement a consistent place in the national squad. With questions swirling about his long-term future and form, the coming months will be crucial for the 27-year-old to reset and refocus.

This article first appeared on Mid Day