‘I request you with folded hands’: Ashwin’s emotional plea to Rishabh Pant

Ravichandran Ashwin has appealed to Rishabh Pant to open the batting for Lucknow Super Giants in every match of IPL 2026. Pant's batting position has been a key discussion point. Ashwin believes opening will benefit Pant and the team. Pant himself stated his role is still uncertain but he will bat in the top order.