Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 19: The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mentor, Zaheer Khan, has outlined an ambitious vision for the team's upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, vowing to adopt a bold and fearless style of play under the leadership of new captain Rishabh Pant.

During a press conference held on Wednesday, the former Indian fast bowler highlighted the team's commitment to an aggressive approach, mirroring the dynamic leadership of their newly appointed skipper.

"Expect to see a fearless mindset from this squad," Zaheer remarked, emphasizing the attitude LSG intends to showcase throughout the tournament.

In response to injury concerns, Zaheer remained optimistic, citing Pant's resilience as a crucial element in shaping the team's outlook. "We are not focusing on injuries. Our captain has faced similar hurdles but maintains a positive perspective. His approach to the game and the pressure he applies on bowlers will reflect in LSG's gameplay," he stated.

Pant has been given the responsibility of leading the franchise this season, and Zaheer expressed his confidence in Pant's capabilities. "We have a fantastic captain appointed this year to steer the team forward. There are high expectations from him," he added.

Pant's journey in the IPL takes on a poetic twist as he begins his campaign as LSG's captain against his former team, the Delhi Capitals, in Visakhapatnam on March 24.

Having played for Delhi Capitals (DC) throughout his IPL career since 2016, Pant has amassed 3,284 runs in 110 matches, averaging 35.31, with one century and 18 fifties. He was named captain in 2021, leading the team to the playoffs that season. After being released by the franchise ahead of the mega auction in 2024, he became the league's most expensive player at Rs 27 crore, joining LSG, who appointed him as captain in January. While there are discussions about his batting position, one thing is certain: Pant's fans are in for an exciting season!

Pant was also part of India's ICC Champions Trophy-winning squad recently, although he did not play in any matches. He has not participated in any white-ball games for India since August, and a successful IPL season could see him reclaim his status as India's first-choice wicketkeeper-batter.