In a press conference following Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) defeat to Mumbai Indians in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), coach Justin Langer addressed concerns regarding captain Rishabh Pant's recent performances. LSG, struggling at the bottom of the points table with only two wins in eight matches, has faced criticism over Pant's captaincy and batting choices. Langer noted that Pant had scored 95 runs off approximately 30 to 40 balls in a practice game just days before the match, but could only manage 15 runs against Mumbai. He praised Pant's 'selfless' decision to move down the batting order to allow Nicholas Pooran to shine, who scored an impressive 63 runs off 21 balls. When questioned about the pressure of Pant's ₹27 crore (roughly $3.2 million USD) price tag as the most expensive player in IPL history, Langer dismissed the notion that it was affecting his performance, emphasizing the inherent pressures of leadership in cricket. Langer remains optimistic about Pant's potential to turn his form around and lead the team to victories in upcoming matches.