Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are preparing for a major leadership transition ahead Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 after Rishabh pants resigned as captain after an unsuccessful campaign. Former India opener Wasim Jafar supported the decision and described it as a positive step for both the franchise and the player. Jaffer believes that Pant can now focus on his batting and keeping wickets, while LSG are looking for a new leader who can steer the team back into contention.
Wasim Jaffer supports Rishabh Pant’s decision to give up captaincy
Pant’s tenure as LSG skipper has come under intense scrutiny after the franchise endured a tough IPL 2026 season and finished at the bottom of the points table. The wicketkeeper-batsman, who joined the franchise for a record-breaking fee of ₹ 27 crore, failed to inspire a turnaround despite entering the role with considerable expectations.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer said the decision to walk away from the captaincy was the right one, whether it came from the player or the franchise management. According to the former Indian off-spinner, leadership responsibilities often require a calm and calculated approach, something that naturally does not suit Pant’s instinctive style of play.
Jaffer explained that Pant thrives on spontaneity and aggression, qualities that make him a dangerous cricketer, but can cause problems when handling the tactical and emotional demands of captaincy. He emphasized that the resignation should not be seen as a failure but as an opportunity for Pant to maximize his strengths as a player.
“I think it’s either the franchise telling him or his own decision. It’s a good decision. A decision in the right direction. You’re dealing with closure and being reactive and impulsive,” Jaffer said.
The former player also noted that the captaincy can sometimes become an unnecessary burden for players whose main strengths lie elsewhere. In Pant’s case, Jaffer believes that shedding leadership duties could allow him to focus on exactly the areas where he has proven his worth, batting and wicketkeeping.
Pant remains one of the most explosive players in world cricket and LSG are expected to continue building their batting unit around him. With the captaincy no longer on his shoulders, the franchise will be hoping that 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 has to control his emotions. It’s not his fault, it’s his nature. He shouldn’t be the captain. He has to accept that he can’t do things like plan or work with the players. He’s fighting as a leader. Nothing wrong, just play as a player. Good decision and in the right direction.” Jaffer added.
Also READ: Rishabh Pant steps down as captain of Lucknow Super Giants 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 of Australia Mitchell Marsh.
Both players have leadership experience at the international level and possess the tactical understanding required to lead a high-profile IPL side. However, Jaffer was particularly impressed by Markram’s personality, highlighting his calm presence and ability to make smart decisions under pressure.
Markram’s leadership credentials, combined with his balanced approach to the field, could make him an attractive option for a franchise looking for stability after a turbulent period. Marsh, meanwhile, brings vast experience, strong communication skills and the respect of his teammates, making him another suitable candidate for the position.
“Whether it’s Mitchell Marsh or Aiden Markram leading the side, they’ve done it for their national sides. Aiden Markram in particular has a healthy personality and captains well.” Jaffer observed.
