In form of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 With the auction approaching, teams are preparing to finalize their squads to build competitive sides for the upcoming season. ipl 2026 mini auction It is expected to take place in mid-December, with the last date for franchises to announce their retained players being November 15. meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Whose IPL 2025 season was a mixed bag, they are making strategies on which players to retain as the auction approaches.
LSG’s disappointing performance in IPL 2025
Entry of Lucknow Super Giants ipl 2025 With high expectations after major auction moves including the expensive acquisition of Rishabh Pant As captain for Rs 27 crores. However, the team finished 7th on the points table, winning 6 and losing 8 of its 14 matches.
A major challenge for LSG was a fragile bowling attack that was plagued by injuries to key fast bowlers. Mohsin Khan, Akash Deep, And Avesh KhanDue to which his pace battery became very weak. Bowling inconsistency meant that LSG had no major match-winners in their bowling lineup despite bright spots. Shardul Thakur and emerging talent Digvesh RathiThe batting performance was similarly inconsistent, with Pant’s performance falling short of expectations. Overall, although some players showed promise, the team fell short of the playoff race, highlighting areas that need further strengthening ipl 2026.
LSG may retain five Indian players before IPL 2026
1. Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper batsman):
Despite a poor performance individually in IPL 2025, Pant remains a vital cornerstone for LSG. As captain and one of the most explosive Indian batsmen, he scored 269 runs in 13 innings with a top score of 118* and maintained a high strike rate of 133.16. His experience and leadership are significant, making him almost certain to be retained
Also read: Rajasthan Royals: RR may retain 5 Indian players ahead of IPL 2026 auction
2. Ayush Badoni (Batting Allrounder):
Ayush Badoni Showed consistency and adaptability with the bat during IPL 2025, despite limited opportunities. He scored 13 runs in 2 innings, displayed a healthy strike rate around 130 and continued to develop into a dependable finisher. Given his youth and potential, LSG are likely to retain him for further development
3. Akash Deep (Fast Bowler):
Akash played 6 matches for LSG in IPL 2025, taking 3 wickets. Although his economy rate was high, he brings variety with his swing bowling and can develop into a reliable bowling option. LSG values his skill set and can retain him as an excellent fast bowler
4. Avesh Khan (Fast Bowler):
Avesh is one of the most experienced Indian fast bowlers of LSG. In IPL 2025, he played 13 matches, taking 13 wickets with notable spells. His pace and ability to swing the ball make him an important asset despite some inconsistencies. LSG will likely retain him to lead their pace attack
5. Digvesh Rathi (Mystery Spinner):
The breakout performer of IPL 2025 for LSG, Rathi impressed with 14 wickets in his debut season. His promising arc spin bowling and ability to take crucial wickets has established him as an emerging talent that the franchise will be keen to retain.
Also read: Chennai Super Kings: CSK may retain 5 Indian players before IPL 2026 auction
