As the Lucknow Super Giants started preparing for IPL 2026, which will begin on March 28, skipper Rishabh Pant emphasized the value of teamwork, communication, and objective clarity.
The Lucknow-based team posted a video on X in which captain Pant greeted both new and returning players and urged them to concentrate on developing close bonds during the pre-season training.
“A lot of people are from last year. A few new faces for sure. Welcome, everyone. I think let’s keep it very short and simple. Let’s look to build the relationships. If we don’t talk about cricket, we’re not going to improve. As an individual, let’s take whatever we can from all these gentlemen here and try to build something for this season to look forward to,” Pant said.
The wicketkeeper-batter also emphasized the need of mental clarity while starting a new season, pointing out that players need to identify their individual and team goals.
“When we come into a season, every time there is a thought in our mind that let’s build something, let’s look to win. But at the same time, you know, to be clear in your thought process, what do you want to do? What you wanna achieve as an individual and as a team… And this is the best time to have that clarity.”
Pant went on to characterize the meeting as the first stage of preparations, with the rest of the squad expected to join soon. He maintained a high level of energy while encouraging his teammates to enjoy the process.
“This is kind of a season camp, but still a pre-season camp because the rest of the squad will join from March 15-16, mostly. So it’s just getting to know each other. Let’s spend a good time with each other and have a great time, yeah? Let’s keep communicating. Lots of energy. Lots of fun. Lots of learning. Let’s create something,” Pant stated.
The first phase of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) will take place from March 28 to April 12, according to the schedule released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on March 11.
According to the schedule, the Pant-led LSG will start their IPL 2026 season campaign on April 1 against Delhi Capitals. They will then play Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5, Kolkata Knight Riders on April 9, and Gujarat Titans on April 12 in the first phase.
Following the announcement of the poll dates for the three states that will have State Assembly elections during this time, the complete schedule for the IPL 2026 edition will be revealed.
At Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the defending champions RCB will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the opening match.
