Faf Du Plessis: Rishabh Pant is The Most Pressured Player Heading into IPL 2026
Faf du Plessis highlighted Pant's price tag and inconsistent LSG campaign as key pressure factors.
Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis believes Rishabh Pant, the wicketkeeper-batsman, could be the player under the most pressure in the upcoming Indian Premier League season. Rishabh Pant is set to lead the Lucknow Super Giants for the second consecutive year after a mixed campaign in IPL 2024.
Speaking on Star Sports, du Plessis highlighted the unique pressures associated with high-profile players, especially those carrying hefty price tags. “For me, he is probably the player in the IPL who’s under the most pressure this season. We always talk about the price tag pressure. Some guys flourish under that price-tag pressure, and some guys don’t,” du Plessis said. He added that last season was challenging for Rishabh Pant, noting that both the team’s performance and Pant's batting form struggled at times.
Pant, however, bounced back with a stellar performance in India’s recent Test series in England, demonstrating resilience and form that fans will hope carries into the IPL. His leadership will be closely watched as Lucknow Super Giants aim to improve on last season’s results and contend for the title.
Du Plessis’ remarks underscore the expectations on young captains in high-pressure leagues like the IPL, where individual performances can significantly influence team success. Analysts also note that Pant's ability to handle this pressure will be crucial not just for his personal success but also for guiding Lucknow’s squad through the season.
The IPL 2026 season is expected to start later this month, with cricket fans eagerly anticipating how Pant and other marquee players will perform under the bright lights of one of the world’s most competitive T20 leagues.
