In a strategic move ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, Lucknow Super Giants have confirmed the retention of several key players, including Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, and Ravi Bishnoi. The franchise is also set to keep uncapped talents, Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan, solidifying their core for the upcoming season.
Nicholas Pooran, who has emerged as a crucial player for LSG, is expected to be the top retention. The 29-year-old West Indies international was instrumental in the team’s success in IPL 2024, finishing just behind KL Rahul in the run charts and stepping up as interim captain during Rahul’s absence due to injury. Pooran was originally signed for INR 16 crore ahead of the 2023 season and has proven his worth as one of the league’s premier power-hitters.
Mayank Yadav, despite a limited appearance in IPL 2024 due to injury, showcased his potential by earning two Player-of-the-Match awards in his first two outings. Having only played seven T20 matches, including four in the IPL, he has recently been included in the national fast-bowling roster, indicating his rising profile.
Ravi Bishnoi has been a consistent performer since being picked by LSG in the pre-auction process before IPL 2022. The young spinner has established himself as a key player, taking 16 wickets in the 2023 season and maintaining an impressive economy rate.
Alongside these established players, LSG will retain the uncapped duo of Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan. Badoni, known for his aggressive batting style, made a significant impact in the 2023 season with 238 runs at a strike rate of 138. Mohsin Khan, a promising left-arm fast bowler, has shown potential in his IPL career, picking up 10 wickets in 2024 after a challenging recovery from injury.
As LSG prepares for the auction, they will have one right-to-match (RTM) card available, especially crucial given KL Rahul’s uncertain future with the franchise. With INR 51 crore set to be deducted from their budget for the retentions, LSG will have to strategize effectively to enhance their squad further.
The team’s decision to retain this mix of experienced players and young talent reflects their commitment to building a competitive side for the next IPL season. As the franchise looks to build on its successes, fans will be eagerly watching how these retentions shape LSG’s performance in IPL 2025.
