LSG board considers leadership reset after dismal IPL 2026 campaign

Lucknow Super Giants are preparing for a significant structural review following a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, with global director of cricket Tom Moody indicating that a leadership reset is under consideration. The franchise, which entered the tournament with high expectations, secured only four victories throughout the season, ultimately finishing in the bottom two of the points table.

Speaking at a press conference following a seven-wicket defeat to Punjab Kings, Moody acknowledged that the team failed to meet its own standards. He highlighted that captain Rishabh Pant found the pressures of leadership challenging, a factor he suggested may have negatively impacted Pant’s batting performance. Moody noted that while the season was difficult, the franchise would take time to reflect on the outcomes before making any final decisions.

The recent loss to Punjab Kings marked the end of a six-match losing streak for the opposition, who moved to 15 points from 14 matches to reclaim fourth place on the table. Shreyas Iyer scored his maiden IPL century in the match, further underscoring the disparity in form between the two sides during the final stages of the tournament.

Pant’s individual statistics have drawn scrutiny as the franchise looks inward. Across two seasons with Lucknow, he has managed 581 runs at a strike rate of 135.74. Both his average and strike rate have fallen below his overall IPL career numbers, a decline from his earlier successes, including a 684-run season in 2018 at a strike rate of 173.60.

Moody emphasized that the board is considering a complete reset to regain its competitive edge. He stated that leadership is a key area of focus, confirming that the franchise will make considered decisions regarding the future of the captaincy role. The review process is expected to be thorough, mirroring the approach taken across other departments of the organisation.

The IPL 2026 schedule saw Lucknow Super Giants suffer losses to major opponents including Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, and Chennai Super Kings. Despite two wins against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders, and a DLS victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the results were insufficient to secure a playoff berth.

The franchise now faces a period of reflection to determine how to move forward. With the leadership question hanging over the squad, the board is expected to announce its decision on the captaincy structure in the coming weeks, aiming to stabilise the team for future competitions.