With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 player acquisition event drawing closer, teams are getting ready to lock in their player rosters to form formidable squads for the next season. The IPL 2026 mini player acquisition event is anticipated to be scheduled around mid-December, with November 15 being the deadline for franchises to declare their retained players. Against this backdrop, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), following a variable IPL 2025 season, are carefully considering which players to secure as the acquisition event approaches.
LSG’s Unimpressive IPL 2025 Performance
Lucknow Super Giants started IPL 2025 with significant optimism after substantial acquisition moves, notably the expensive procurement of Rishabh Pant as team leader for Rs 27 crore. However, the team concluded at the 7th spot in the standings, securing 6 wins out of 14 matches and facing 8 defeats.
A primary obstacle for LSG was a susceptible bowling lineup affected by injuries to key fast bowlers such as Mohsin Khan, Akash Deep, and Avesh Khan, considerably impairing their fast bowling resources. This bowling unpredictability resulted in LSG lacking a consistently impactful bowler, notwithstanding encouraging displays from players like Shardul Thakur and emerging prospect Digvesh Rathi. Similarly, batting displays were not consistently strong, with Pant not quite meeting the high expectations. In general, despite certain players demonstrating potential, the team did not qualify for the playoffs, underscoring areas needing reinforcement before IPL 2026.
Five Indian players LSG might decide to retain leading into IPL 2026
1. Rishabh Pant (Wicket-Keeper Batter):
Even with a less-than-ideal IPL 2025 on a personal level, Pant is still a fundamental keystone for LSG. Occupying the role of captain, in addition to being one of the most dynamic Indian batters, he accumulated 269 runs across 13 innings, registering a best score of 118*, and maintaining a brisk rate of scoring at 133.16. His experience and guidance are indispensable, rendering his retention highly probable.
2. Ayush Badoni (Batting All-Rounder):
Ayush Badoni demonstrated stability and flexibility with his batting during IPL 2025, albeit with few opportunities. He posted 13 runs over 2 innings, maintained a reasonable rate of scoring near 130, and is still developing as a reliable finisher. Considering his age and untapped potential, LSG is anticipated to retain him for continued development.
3. Akash Deep (Pace Bowler):
Akash participated in 6 matches for LSG during IPL 2025, claiming 3 wickets. While his economy was on the higher end, his swing bowling provides variation and has the potential to evolve into a dependable bowling resource. LSG values his skillset and might secure him as a key fast bowler.
4. Avesh Khan (Pace Bowler):
Avesh continues to be one of LSG’s most seasoned Indian pacers. During IPL 2025, he played 13 matches, taking 13 wickets with notable performances. His velocity and knack for moving the ball make him a crucial component, in spite of occasional inconsistency. It is anticipated that LSG will secure him to spearhead their fast bowling division.
5. Digvesh Rathi (Mystery spinner):
Having emerged as a stellar performer during IPL 2025 for LSG, Rathi made a strong impression with 14 wickets in his introductory season. His encouraging mystery spin deliveries and his capability to secure vital wickets have established him as an emerging talent that the franchise will be eager to retain.
