As the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up for its next edition, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have firmed up their list of retained players ahead of the much-anticipated mega auction. The strategic decisions made by the franchise have already stirred significant interest among fans and cricket experts alike. According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, LSG has chosen to retain five core players: Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Ayush Badoni, and Mohsin Khan. Interestingly, the name of the franchise’s skipper, KL Rahul, is conspicuously absent from this retention list, signaling a potential shift in team dynamics.
KL Rahul, a seasoned cricketer and the team’s captain, unfortunately, does not feature in this list of retentions. This development has left many speculating about the team’s future strategies and their possible moves during the auction. While the retention list seemingly excludes Rahul, there remains a window for last-minute changes before the final confirmation. If this decision stands, it would leave the Lucknow Super Giants with only a solitary Right to Match (RTM) card to utilize in the upcoming auction – a situation that could significantly impact their squad-building strategy.
The financial implications of this retention decision are noteworthy. While the exact figures of the retained players have not yet been disclosed, it is understood that retaining these five players will deduct a minimum of Rs 51 crore from the team’s auction purse. Among the retained players, Nicholas Pooran has emerged as the top priority for the franchise. Pooran, who was acquired by LSG for a hefty Rs 16 crore ahead of IPL 2023, has justified his price tag by amassing 358 and 499 runs in the subsequent two seasons, maintaining an impressive strike rate exceeding 170.
The retention of Mayank Yadav, another pivotal figure for LSG, is intriguing, especially considering his consistent on-field performances despite being prone to injuries.
. The speedster has made a notable impact in the matches he has played, securing the Player of the Match accolade twice, with deliveries consistently clocking over 150 km/h. Acquired for a modest sum of Rs 20 lakh, he has been a value addition to the squad. At present, Mayank is recovering from an injury at the BCCI’s newly inaugurated Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru – a clear indication of the franchise’s commitment to his future in the team.
Alongside Mayank, Ravi Bishnoi, Ayush Badoni, and Mohsin Khan form the rest of the retained core. Bishnoi and Badoni have been instrumental since LSG’s debut IPL season in 2022, bringing versatility and depth to the playing XI. Ayush Badoni, an emerging talent, has shown great promise with his performances, while Mohsin Khan’s potential has been evident despite his struggles with injuries. Mohsin, a towering 6’3″ left-arm fast bowler hailing from Uttar Pradesh, seems to have impressed the franchise’s management enough to secure his place in the squad amid tough competition for spots.
This series of retentions reflects LSG’s strategy of building a balanced squad infused with a mix of proven performers and promising youngsters. As the team shapes up for IPL 2025, fans are eagerly anticipating the outcomes of the mega auction, where teams will vie for the best talents on offer. The dynamics of the auction will be exciting to watch, particularly with the potential game-changing aspects hinging on player retentions and Right to Match cards.
The build-up to IPL 2025 is set to be electrifying, with franchises looking to refine their teams to clinch the coveted trophy. For Lucknow Super Giants, navigating the upcoming auction will be both a test and an opportunity to carve out a formidable ensemble for the challenges ahead. As the situation continues to evolve, all eyes remain on the leadership decisions and strategic choices that the LSG management will make leading up to this cricketing extravaganza.
