IPL 2026: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has questioned Rishabh Pant’s move to the top order for Lucknow Super Giants, saying the wicketkeeper-batter could be putting himself under unnecessary pressure.

Pant, who was run out for 7 off 9 balls in the IPL 2026 opener against Delhi Capitals, later said he plans to bat in the top order this season.

“I think it’s a 50-50 call, but you’ll definitely see me in the top order,” Pant said after the match.

Pietersen, however, said the decision may not suit the balance of the side.

“When you look at the strength and depth of LSG’s batting, is Rishabh Pant really an opening batter?” Pietersen said. “I think he might have gone a little too far ahead of where he was in the line-up compared to last year.”

He added that moving up the order could affect Pant’s natural game.

“I think he just needs to go out and enjoy his cricket. Don’t force yourself into batting at number three. I think he puts himself under tremendous pressure by opening the batting,” Pietersen said.

Lucknow Super Giants were bowled out for 141 in 18.4 overs, and Delhi Capitals chased down the target by six wickets.

Pietersen also praised Sameer Rizvi, who scored an unbeaten 70 to guide Delhi Capitals to victory after they were reduced to 26 for 4.

“He played the situation beautifully, and I’m not surprised,” Pietersen said. “This kid is a proper player, and we probably need to invest in him for a period of time.”

Rizvi shared an unbroken 119-run partnership with Tristan Stubbs to seal the chase.

“When you invest in a young player, you need trust that the player can pay you back, and he has done exactly that,” Pietersen added.