The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are gearing up for the upcoming IPL 2025 auction, and recent reports indicate a strategic plan focused on retaining several key players, while making some significant changes. As the team prepares for the auction, the retention of Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, and Ravi Bishnoi is set to define their roster and strengthen their chances for the next season.
The IPL has become synonymous with high-stakes decisions as franchises look to optimize their squads for competitive success. LSG, which has been a part of the league since its inception in 2022, finds itself at a crossroads after a mixed performance in the last season. While the team managed to qualify for the playoffs in the previous years, the most recent season left much to be desired, leading to a reassessment of their roster.
Nicholas Pooran, the explosive West Indian wicketkeeper-batter, is expected to be the top retention for LSG. He joined the team before the 2023 season for a hefty sum of INR 16 crore and played a vital role in the batting lineup. Pooran, who has previously shown his capabilities in high-pressure situations, is seen as a player who can anchor the middle order and provide stability. His leadership skills were also on display when he stepped in as captain during some matches last season, showcasing his potential to guide the team through challenging situations.
In addition to Pooran, Mayank Yadav is also in line for retention. The young fast bowler, known for his ability to bowl at express speeds often exceeding 150 km/h, has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in the league. Despite a season interrupted by injury—where he managed to play only four matches—Yadav made a significant impact by claiming seven wickets, including standout performances against established batsmen. His selection in the national squad for T20Is speaks volumes about his talent and potential, making him a valuable asset for LSG.
Ravi Bishnoi, another young star, has also been crucial to LSG’s strategy. The leg-spinner was retained for INR 4 crore during the major auction ahead of IPL 2022 and has consistently performed well since then. With 10 wickets in the 2024 season, Bishnoi’s overall track record in the IPL—including his impressive tally of 13 wickets in 2022 and 16 in 2023—highlights his growth and importance to the team. His ability to take crucial wickets at pivotal moments will be key for LSG as they seek to enhance their bowling attack.
The franchise’s decision to retain these players comes amid reports that LSG is set to release captain KL Rahul. Rahul has been an integral part of LSG since its establishment, leading the team through two playoff qualifications. However, his performance has come under scrutiny, and the management appears to be shifting gears in search of a new direction. The decision to part ways with such a high-profile player reflects LSG’s commitment to refreshing its squad and addressing areas of concern.
The retention of Pooran, Yadav, and Bishnoi will see LSG incur a cost of around INR 51 crore, which will be deducted from their total budget for the auction. Each franchise is allowed a salary cap of INR 120 crore, meaning LSG will have to be strategic about their remaining budget to fill any gaps left by the release of players like Rahul.
Additionally, LSG is also likely to retain uncapped players like Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni. Mohsin has shown promise as a left-arm fast bowler, impressing with his performances despite facing injury setbacks. Badoni, on the other hand, has emerged as a valuable middle-order batsman, making significant contributions to the team’s success in the last season.
As the countdown to the IPL 2025 auction continues, fans and analysts alike are keenly observing LSG’s moves. The team’s focus on retaining dynamic players while making room for potential new talent could set the stage for a more competitive season. LSG’s management will need to navigate the auction process carefully, balancing their roster with a mix of experience and youth to ensure they remain a formidable force in the league.
Overall, the Lucknow Super Giants’ decisions regarding player retention reflect not only their immediate goals for IPL 2025 but also a broader vision for building a robust team capable of competing for the title. With the expected retention of Pooran, Yadav, and Bishnoi, LSG aims to establish a strong foundation that can propel them back into contention as a top team in the league. As the auction approaches, all eyes will be on how the franchise executes its strategy and whether it can successfully build a championship-winning squad.