Ravichandran Ashwin, a former Indian cricketer, has voiced concerns regarding Rishabh Pant's inconsistent role with the Lucknow Super Giants in the ongoing IPL 2026. Ashwin suggests that the franchise should assign Pant a fixed position, particularly as an opener, to prevent confusion and enhance performance. Pant's opening stint in the season opener against Delhi Capitals was disappointing, scoring only seven runs before a bizarre run-out. Despite criticism, Pant hinted he might continue opening, but Ashwin noted a lack of conviction in his statements, implying possible internal discussions within the team management. Pant has previously opened in T20 cricket 23 times, boasting a strike rate of 159 with one century and five fifties. His recent decision to open was tactical, aimed at creating a left-right combination to counter the opposition's bowling strategy. Lucknow's commitment to this strategy will be tested in their upcoming match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.