Pant counts on Bharat Arun to fix LSG’s bowling ahead of IPL 2026

Captain Rishabh Pant has stressed the need for Lucknow Super Giants to strengthen their bowling unit ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League 2026, adding that the arrival of experienced bowling coach Bharat Arun has already begun to make a positive difference as the team aims to end its wait for an IPL title.

Pant said the team management had identified bowling as a major area requiring improvement following last season’s struggles, and believes Arun’s experience and communication have helped build confidence among the bowlers during the pre-season camp.

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“The camp with the fast bowlers has been fantastic. Bharat Arun, sir, has come on board, and since he arrived, he has been adding a lot of value. We’ve had a lot of conversations about what I want from the bowlers and what he thinks he can add. The energy is pure. He is one of the best bowling coaches, and I have that trust, having worked with him when he was with the Indian cricket team. He brings that experience,” Pant said on JioHotstar.

“The bowlers trust him and open up to him, which is exactly what you want from a bowling coach, adding value to the system. When we look back at last season, we felt we needed to add more to our bowling. He is definitely someone who can contribute a lot in that area, and I am really happy to have him,” he added.

Pant also emphasised the importance of maintaining a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere within the dressing room, noting that players perform better when they are able to enjoy the game.

“I think everyone is fun-loving these days because the environment is already so stressful. Everyone wants to enjoy each other’s company; you can feel that emotion, the love, the enjoyment. If you carry too much stress and don’t enjoy yourself, sometimes you won’t be able to give your best.

“You don’t want to treat it as work. I say this a lot, as kids, why did we play cricket? Yes, there is a lot at stake, a lot to lose, and the stakes will keep getting higher, but you shouldn’t stop enjoying the game and having fun. I think that is something that seems to be missing these days, and if players bring that back, they will be a lot happier,” he said.

The wicketkeeper-batter, who missed India’s ODI series against New Zealand national cricket team in January due to a side strain and has not played a match since, said he is currently in a positive frame of mind and focused on continuous self-improvement.

“I think I am in a good space, physically and mentally. I like to work on myself every day, and I enjoy that, because you have to spend time with yourself to keep improving. As long as you are playing cricket, that matters. All the seniors I speak to tell me that in cricket, you can’t take it lightly even for a day. Today could be your day, but tomorrow it might not be, and that could change again the day after. So, just keep working hard,” he said.

“Decision-making and handling situations are important, but consistently working on yourself to improve, even when things are going your way, is important. I believe there are only two scenarios in life, either you’re doing good or you’re doing okay, there is nothing called bad. A lot of times, you tend not to appreciate your journey, where you come from, and how hard you have worked to get where you are. At the same time, don’t take it for granted,” Pant added.

The Rishabh Pant-led LSG will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on April 1.