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as and when Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 With the IPL auction approaching, teams are preparing to finalize their squads to create competitive teams for the upcoming season. IPL 2026 mini auction It is expected to happen around mid-December, while November 15 is the last date for franchises to announce their retained players. meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)which had a mixed performance in IPL 2025, is deciding which players to retain as the auction approaches.

LSG’s disappointing IPL 2025 journey

Lucknow Super Giants IPL 2025 entered with high expectations following major auction changes in which Rishabh Pant This included buying him as captain for Rs 27 crore. However, the team finished 7th in the points table, winning 6 and losing 8 from 14 matches.

A major challenge for LSG was a weak bowling attack, which lacked key fast bowlers such as Mohammed Khan, Akash Deep And Avesh Khan He was affected by injuries which significantly weakened his pace battery. Inconsistency in bowling meant that LSG did not have any major match-winners in their bowling lineup, however. Shardul Thakur and emerging talent Digvesh Rathi Like there were some bright spots. The batting performance was equally inconsistent, with Pant performing below expectations. Overall, although some players showed promise, the team remained out of the playoff race, making IPL 2026 Strong areas were identified for.

5 Indian players of LSG who can be retained before IPL 2026

1. Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper batsman):

Despite average performances individually in IPL 2025, Pant remains a vital pillar for LSG. As captain and one of the most explosive Indian batsmen, he scored 269 runs in 13 innings, including a highest score of 118* and had a strike rate of 133.16. His experience and leadership are important, making his retention almost certain.

2. Ayush Badoni (Batting all-rounder):

Ayush Badoni Showed consistency and adaptability with the bat during limited opportunities in IPL 2025. He scored 13 runs in 2 innings, displayed a healthy strike rate of around 130, and is developing into a reliable finisher. Given his youth and potential, LSG may retain him for further development.

3. Akash Deep (Fast Bowler):

Akash played 6 matches for LSG in IPL 2025, taking 3 wickets. Although his economy rate was a bit high, he brings variety with his swing bowling and can develop into a reliable bowling option. LSG values ​​his skill set and can retain him as a premier fast bowler.​

4. Avesh Khan (Fast Bowler):

Avesh remains one of the most experienced Indian fast bowlers at LSG. In IPL 2025, he played 13 matches, took 13 wickets and bowled notable spells. His speed and ability to swing the ball make him a valuable asset, even if there is some inconsistency. LSG may retain him to lead their fast bowling attack.

5. Digvesh Rathi (Mystery Spinner):

Rathi, who had a breakout performance for LSG in IPL 2025, impressed by taking 14 wickets in his debut season. His promising mystery spin bowling and ability to take important wickets has established him as an emerging talent whom the franchise will be keen to retain.