- Tue, March 15, 2022
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Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) entered the IPL in 2021 with a vision to create a competitive team capable of winning titles. Owned by the RPSG Group and led by Dr. Sanjiv Goenka, the franchise seeks a fresh perspective ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. LSG has had moments of brilliance, yet they haven’t matched the consistent success of other new franchises, like Gujarat Titans, who claimed the title in their inaugural season in 2022. With a potential shift in captaincy and a strategic focus on refining their lineup, LSG aims to assemble a winning combination for IPL 2025.
As a relatively new IPL franchise, Lucknow Super Giants has only participated in the league since 2021, but the management, RPSG Group, has prior experience with the Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) in 2016 and 2017. Under RPS, they initially handed captaincy to MS Dhoni, later replacing him with Steve Smith, reflecting their proactive approach to leadership.
A notable development for LSG is the uncertainty around the captaincy of KL Rahul. While Rahul remains an experienced option with IPL captaincy background, the franchise is exploring alternatives to energize the team. With the management’s history of making bold decisions, the possibility of a new captain.
In previous auctions, LSG has focused on all-rounders and strong foreign players, with major signings like KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis, and Nicholas Pooran. For IPL 2025, LSG’s auction strategy will likely involve refining their bowling attack and seeking a consistent top-order batsman or potential new captain, as they aim to create a lineup capable of winning the title.
Core Retentions for IPL 2025
LSG is expected to retain a group of core players who have consistently delivered impactful performances. These players are expected to form the backbone of the team:
Nicholas Pooran
A powerful and adaptable wicketkeeper-batsman, Nicholas Pooran has been a significant asset for LSG in recent seasons. Known for his ability to play crucial middle-order roles, Pooran has excelled in finishing games and can single-handedly accelerate the scoring rate. His dynamic style of play and recent consistent performances in various T20 leagues make him a core retention for LSG.Marcus Stoinis
The Australian all-rounder brings balance to the squad with his power-hitting capabilities and effective medium-pace bowling. Stoinis has established himself as a reliable all-rounder in both IPL and international T20 formats, making him indispensable for LSG’s success. His finishing prowess and flexibility to bowl at different stages of the game make him a key retention.Ravi Bishnoi
A talented leg-spinner, Ravi Bishnoi is known for his ability to take wickets in the middle overs. Bishnoi’s variations make him an unpredictable force, and his performances for India and LSG have underscored his potential as a mainstay in the bowling attack. Retaining Bishnoi aligns with LSG’s need to have a reliable spin option.Right to Match (RTM) Options
To maximize squad strength, LSG may utilize RTM cards for players who offer substantial value:
KL Rahul
If LSG decides to release KL Rahul, they might still consider using an RTM to retain him. Despite the ongoing speculations, Rahul’s experience as an IPL opener and his ability to anchor innings make him a valuable player for the squad, especially if the team lacks another high-profile opener.Shivam Mavi
A promising pace bowler, Shivam Mavi adds depth to LSG’s bowling unit. Known for his ability to bowl at the death and maintain tight lines, Mavi’s pace makes him a key element of LSG’s pace attack, especially under the mentorship of Zaheer Khan.Krunal Pandya
As a versatile all-rounder, Krunal Pandya offers effective left-arm spin along with impactful batting in the lower-middle order. His experience in IPL and consistent performances for LSG make him a core player for the 2025 season, contributing to both batting depth and spin options.Key Auction Targets from Other Franchises
To further strengthen their squad, LSG may target the following high-impact players from other IPL teams:
Suyash Prabhudessai (from Royal Challengers Bangalore)
Known for his strong fielding and reliable middle-order batting, Suyash Prabhudessai could provide LSG with much-needed flexibility in the lineup. His skills as a finisher make him an excellent addition, adding depth to the batting unit.Ashutosh Sharma (from Punjab Kings)
A powerful finisher, Ashutosh Sharma showcased his capabilities in IPL 2024. His quick runs in the lower order could complement Pooran and Stoinis, enhancing LSG’s ability to set or chase challenging totals.
Foreign Players LSG May Target
LSG has historically relied on impactful foreign players, and for IPL 2025, they could aim to bring in the following international stars:
Harry Brook (from England)
Harry Brook has made a name for himself as a dependable middle-order batsman in the English circuit. Known for his aggressive approach and composure under pressure, Brook could offer stability in LSG’s middle order while bolstering their run-scoring ability.Rilee Rossouw (from South Africa)
The experienced South African batsman Rilee Rossouw has been a consistent performer across T20 leagues. His attacking batting style and proficiency against spin make him a valuable overseas asset for LSG, particularly on Indian pitches.
Emerging Players LSG May Target
LSG’s strategy includes developing young talent, and for IPL 2025, they might look to secure:
Sameer Rizvi (from Chennai Super Kings)
A promising young batsman, Sameer Rizvi has shown the ability to perform in high-stakes situations. His adaptability and aggressive style make him a perfect fit for LSG’s middle order, giving the team a valuable future asset.Kartik Tyagi (from Gujarat Titans)
Kartik Tyagi has demonstrated exceptional pace and control, making him one of the most promising young Indian pacers. His ability to bowl at high speeds and under pressure would strengthen LSG’s pace attack, especially in the death overs.Complete Expected Squad and Winning Combination for IPL 2025
Based on retentions, RTM options, and auction targets, here is the projected LSG squad for IPL 2025:
Top Order:
Middle Order and All-Rounders:
Bowling Attack:
LSG has emphasized depth in their bowling department, but inconsistency in recent seasons has prompted them to focus on economy rates. By retaining Ravi Bishnoi and targeting new pacers in IPL 2025 Mega Auction LSG aims to construct a versatile and economical bowling lineup that can control high-pressure situations. While LSG has several explosive batters, they have lacked consistent run-scorers in the middle order. Targeting players like Harry Brook and Suyash Prabhudessai will help LSG build a reliable lineup capable of anchoring innings, especially during tricky chases or challenging pitches.
The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) boast a well-rounded and experienced coaching staff for IPL 2025. Heading the lineup is Justin Langer, the renowned Australian coach known for his strategic insights and successful tenure with the Australian national team. Working alongside him is Zaheer Khan, a former Indian pacer, who provides mentorship and strategic support, particularly to the bowling unit. The assistant coaching responsibilities are shouldered by Lance Klusener and Sridharan Sriram, both of whom bring specialized insights, with Klusener focusing on all-rounders and Sriram concentrating on batting techniques. Renowned for his agility and fielding skills, Jonty Rhodes oversees fielding coaching, adding invaluable expertise to improve the team's on-field agility and reflexes. The team also benefits from the experience of Pravin Tambe, who serves as an assistant coach and spin consultant, and Adam Voges as a cricket consultant, ensuring comprehensive support and holistic training for each player on the squad.
IPL 2024 Squad
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