Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are set for a major leadership transition ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 after Rishabh Pant stepped down as captain following a disappointing campaign. Former India opener Wasim Jaffer has supported the decision, describing it as a positive move for both the franchise and the player. Jaffer believes Pant can now focus entirely on his batting and wicketkeeping while LSG search for a new leader capable of steering the team back into contention.
Wasim Jaffer backs Rishabh Pant’s decision to relinquish captaincy
Pant’s tenure as LSG skipper came under intense scrutiny after the franchise endured a difficult IPL 2026 season and finished at the bottom of the points table. The wicketkeeper-batter, who arrived at the franchise for a record-breaking ₹27 crore fee, was unable to inspire a turnaround despite entering the role with significant expectations.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer said the decision to step away from captaincy was the correct one, regardless of whether it originated from the player or the franchise management. According to the former India batter, leadership responsibilities often demand a calm and calculated approach, something that does not naturally align with Pant’s instinctive style of play.
Jaffer explained that Pant thrives on spontaneity and aggression, qualities that make him a dangerous cricketer but can create challenges when handling the tactical and emotional demands of captaincy. He stressed that stepping down should not be viewed as a setback but rather as an opportunity for Pant to maximize his strengths as a player.
“I think it’s a good decision, whether it’s the franchise telling him or his own decision. A decision in the right direction. You are doing wicketkeeping and are reactive and impulsive,” said Jaffer.
The former opener also pointed out that captaincy can sometimes become an unnecessary burden for players whose primary strengths lie elsewhere. In Pant’s case, Jaffer feels that removing leadership duties could allow him to concentrate fully on his batting and wicketkeeping, areas in which he has consistently proven his value.
Pant remains one of the most explosive players in world cricket, and LSG are expected to continue building their batting unit around him. With captaincy no longer on his shoulders, the franchise will hope the left-hander can return to the match-winning form that made him one of the most sought-after players in the league.
“A captain should control his emotions. It’s not his mistake but his nature. He shouldn’t be the captain. He needs to accept that he can’t do things like planning or handling players. He struggles as a leader. There’s nothing wrong, just play as a player. Good decision and in the right direction,” added Jaffer.
Also READ: Rishabh Pant steps down as Lucknow Super Giants captain after disappointing IPL 2026 season
Jaffer’s pick for LSG captaincy candidates
While discussing LSG’s future leadership plans, Jaffer identified two experienced international cricketers as strong contenders for the captaincy role — South Africa’s Aiden Markram and Australia’s Mitchell Marsh.
Both players have leadership experience at the international level and possess the tactical understanding required to manage a high-profile IPL side. However, Jaffer appeared particularly impressed by Markram’s temperament, highlighting his calm presence and ability to make composed decisions under pressure.
Markram’s leadership credentials, coupled with his balanced approach on the field, could make him an attractive option for a franchise seeking stability after a turbulent period. Marsh, meanwhile, brings vast experience, strong communication skills and the respect of teammates, making him another viable candidate for the position.
“Whether Mitchell Marsh or Aiden Markram leads the side, they have done it for their national sides. Aiden Markram especially has a sound temperament and does good captaincy,” Jaffer observed.
