IPL 2025 LSG Retention List: 5 Players likely to be retained by Lucknow Supergiants

Lucknow Super Giants’ failure to make it to the playoffs in IPL 2024 has been a significant disappointment for the franchise, especially after their impressive performances in the previous two seasons. The team showcased glimpses of brilliance throughout the tournament, but a collective dip in form and a few untimely injuries derailed their campaign.

The IPL 2024 season was characterized by inconsistencies for LSG. Apart from KL Rahul and Nicholas Pooran, no other batter could sustain their form consistently throughout the tournament. Furthermore, their bowling unit lacked the required bite in the absence of key overseas pacers.

As the Lucknow-based franchise prepares for the IPL 2025 mega auction, they will have to rebuild their team from scratch. The IPL governing council has not yet clarified the rules and dates for the mega auction, but it is assumed that franchises will be allowed to retain a maximum of five players, including two overseas players, similar to the previous mega auction. Additionally, each team may also have one Right to Match (RTM) card at their disposal.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at the five players LSG could potentially retain for IPL 2025:

1. KL Rahul

Despite facing public reprimand from the owners earlier in IPL 2024, KL Rahul is likely to be LSG’s first-choice retention. No official statement has been made by the management or Rahul himself regarding any rift, and his consistent performances make him a valuable asset for the franchise. As the captain and one of the most prolific run-scorers in the league, retaining Rahul would be a top priority for LSG.

2. Nicholas Pooran

The explosive West Indian batter has been crucial in LSG’s middle-order. Pooran’s ability to shift gears seamlessly and his big-hitting prowess make him a valuable asset. With overseas batters in high demand, LSG would be wise to retain Pooran as their first overseas player for IPL 2025.

3. Marcus Stoinis

The Australian all-rounder has consistently performed for LSG, contributing with both bat and ball. Stoinis’ ability to provide crucial breakthroughs with the ball and his hard-hitting prowess make him a valuable asset in the shorter format. LSG would be keen to retain his services for the upcoming season as their second overseas pick.

4. Ravi Bishnoi

The young leg-spinner has been one of the standout performers for LSG in the past few seasons despite the team’s overall struggles in IPL 2024. Bishnoi’s ability to bowl economically and pick up wickets makes him a highly sought-after talent. With leg spinners being a prized commodity in the shorter format, LSG would be wise to retain Bishnoi for IPL 2025.

5. Mayank Yadav

The sensational pacer has been the talk of the town in his short appearances. Yadav’s ability to bowl quickly and his impressive bouncers make him a valuable asset in the shortest format. He has 7 wickets from just 4 games. With LSG likely to prioritize retaining their core Indian bowling unit, Yadav could be a potential retention option for the franchise.