IPL legend seen training with Rishabh Pant ahead of IPL 2026 season opener
March 8, 2026: Speculation is growing around Yuvraj Singh potentially taking on a formal mentoring role with the Lucknow Super Giants ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. The franchise recently shared images of the former Indian star working closely with captain Rishabh Pant during practice sessions at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. With the season set to begin on March 28, the pictures have sparked discussions among fans about a possible new leadership setup within the team.
The development comes after LSG finished seventh in the 2025 season and missed the playoffs, prompting owner Sanjiv Goenka to strengthen the team’s support staff. Head coach Justin Langer continues in his role, while Kane Williamson has joined as a strategic advisor alongside bowling coaches Bharat Arun and Carl Crowe. With former mentor Zaheer Khan having departed after one season, many believe Yuvraj could fill the mentoring role for the franchise.
Pant heads into the new season under pressure after being signed for a record ₹27 crore and enduring a challenging 2025 campaign. Reports suggest Yuvraj has been working on improving the captain’s decision-making and mental preparation. Meanwhile, LSG have strengthened their squad by bringing in fast bowler Mohammed Shami and adding players like Arjun Tendulkar and Abdul Samad, while retaining key hitters Nicholas Pooran and Aiden Markram for the upcoming season.