LSG vs DC, IPL 2026: 5 players to watch in today’s match
Rishabh Pant leads Lucknow Super Giants in a crucial IPL season opener against Delhi Capitals. With a strengthened squad, including new pace recruits and a settled batting order, Pant aims for a breakthrough year. Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, rely on KL Rahul and a potent bowling attack, despite missing key players.
Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant enters a crucial IPL season with little margin for error as his side opens against Delhi Capitals at home on Wednesday. After a disappointing first year as captain — where both his leadership and batting fell short, compounded by injuries to key pacers — Pant now has a stronger, fully fit squad at his disposal. The bowling unit has been reinforced by the arrivals of Mohammed Shami and Anrich Nortje, while the return of Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan adds depth.
The batting looks more settled, with Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram forming a formidable opening pair. Pant is expected to move up the order, with Nicholas Pooran likely to slot in at number four. Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, will look to build on a promising but inconsistent previous season.
KL Rahul is set to open, though his partner remains undecided among Prithvi Shaw, Abhishek Porel and Pathum Nissanka. The addition of David Miller strengthens a middle order that includes Tristan Stubbs. Despite missing Mitchell Starc for the opener, Delhi boast a strong bowling attack led by Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, with Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan adding variety.
Here are five players to watch today: Rishabh Pant (LSG) After representing DC for eight seasons, Rishabh Pant joined LSG last year as captain but endured a mixed campaign. He scored 269 runs in 13 innings, including a century, but at a modest strike rate of 133. 16.