Lucknow Super Giants kicked off their preparation for the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction, set to be hosted in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on November 24-25, with a bold decision, marking the end of skipper KL Rahul‘s three-year association with the franchise.
While Rahul amassed over 1,200 runs in 38 matches for the franchise, his strike rate and approach often drew criticism for potentially hindering the team’s scoring rate.
The retention of three bowlers from previous seasons, all Indian players, underscores LSG‘s emphasis on building a strong domestic core. The decision to retain Ayush Badoni, who impressed with his performances in the lower middle order, further emphasizes the franchise’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
LSG’s strategic shift suggests a move away from relying heavily on individual star power and towards fostering a cohesive unit with a balance of experience and youthful exuberance. The upcoming IPL auction will be crucial for LSG as they seek to acquire players who complement their retained core and address any remaining gaps in the squad.
The release of KL Rahul adds a significant name to the auction pool, attracting interest from franchises seeking to bolster their batting lineup. His departure from LSG marks the beginning of new chapters for both the player and the franchise.
As the IPL 2025 season approaches, LSG’s strategic overhaul, characterized by a focus on youth and a balanced approach, positions them to be active participants in the auction and build a competitive squad capable of challenging for the title.
Retained core players
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have initiated a significant restructuring of their squad ahead of the IPL 2025 season, opting to release their former captain, KL Rahul, while retaining a core group of young players. This strategic shift signals a move towards building a team for the future, emphasizing potential and a dynamic approach.
Franchise owner, Sanjiv Goenka, outlined the rationale behind the retentions, highlighting a focus on players with a “winning mentality” who prioritize team success. Nicholas Pooran emerged as an “automatic choice,” reflecting LSG’s commitment to retaining impactful performers.
The franchise also secured the services of Ravi Bishnoi and Mayank Yadav as capped retentions, alongside uncapped players Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni.
Here’s a breakdown of the retained players and the amounts spent:
- Nicholas Pooran (Rs. 21 crore)
- Ravi Bishnoi (Rs. 11 crore)
- Mayank Yadav (Rs. 11 crore)
- Ayush Badoni (uncapped at Rs. 4 crore)
- Mohsin Khan (uncapped at Rs. 4 crore)
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head into the IPL 2024 auction with a remaining purse of Rs. 69 crore, having already spent Rs. 51 crore. They retain a single Right to Match (RTM) card for the event. The team has secured a solid core, retaining key players like Nicholas Pooran (Rs. 21 crore), Ravi Bishnoi (Rs. 11 crore), Mayank Yadav (Rs. 11 crore), and uncapped players Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan, both at Rs. 4 crore each. With a substantial purse and strategic options, LSG are well-positioned to strengthen its squad further during the auction.
Remaining purse, auction strategy and key slots to fill
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) enter the IPL 2024 auction with a substantial remaining purse of Rs. 69 crore, offering them considerable flexibility to make impactful purchases. With Rs. 51 crore already spent on retaining key players like Nicholas Pooran and Ravi Bishnoi, LSG have a strong foundation but still has critical areas to address.
Their single Right to Match (RTM) card adds a strategic advantage, enabling them to potentially reclaim a crucial player who could balance the squad. This combination of financial power and tactical tools positions LSG to be a major player in the upcoming auction.
To maximize their remaining budget, LSG’s auction strategy will likely focus on strengthening specific slots such as experienced middle-order batters, death-over specialists, and additional all-rounders to enhance flexibility.
With Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan retained as promising uncapped players, the team might also look to complement this youthful core with seasoned campaigners. Balancing marquee signings with cost-effective buys will be crucial to building a squad capable of contending for the title while maintaining depth and balance.
Lucknow Super Giants remaining purse: Rs. 69 crore
Lucknow Super Giants Right to Match cards available: 1
Lucknow Super Giants players retained: Nicholas Pooran (Rs. 21 crore), Ravi Bishnoi (Rs. 11 crore), Mayank Yadav (Rs. 11 crore), Ayush Badoni (uncapped at Rs. 4 crore), Mohsin Khan (uncapped at Rs. 4 crore)
Lucknow Super Giants slots remaining:
Minimum: 13 players
Maximum: 20 players
Overseas: 7 players
