The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are set to retain Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, and uncapped players Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni for IPL 2025.
With KL Rahul's retention uncertain, LSG will have one right-to-match (RTM) card available at the auction. A total of INR 51 crore will be deducted from LSG's budget, although if the total for the five players exceeds this amount, the higher figure will be deducted from their INR 120 crore purse.
Player Highlights:
- Nicholas Pooran: The top retention choice, Pooran was crucial in 2024, finishing just behind Rahul in runs and serving as interim captain during Rahul's injury. Acquired for INR 16 crore, Pooran's price has risen significantly since his debut in 2017.
- Mayank Yadav: Notable for his two Player-of-the-Match awards early in 2024, Mayank was limited to four matches due to injury. He was bought for INR 20 lakhs and has made his mark in T20s, including a recent international debut.
- Ravi Bishnoi: Initially picked for INR 4 crore, Bishnoi has consistently performed well, taking 16 wickets in 2023. He played a crucial role in LSG’s playoff runs but had a dip in performance in the latest season.
- Ayush Badoni: An aggressive middle-order batter, Badoni had his best season in 2023 with 238 runs at a strike rate of 138. He recently showcased his skills in the Emerging Series for India A.
- Mohsin Khan: The left-arm fast bowler made a strong debut in 2022, taking 14 wickets at a low economy rate. After recovering from a serious injury, he returned to form in 2024, finishing with 10 wickets in 10 matches.
Overall, LSG aims to build on its success with a strong core of retained players heading into IPL 2025.