KL Rahul- LSG : The IPL 2025 season is already heating up, and the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are making bold moves to reshape their squad. In a stunning shift, LSG has decided to part ways with their captain and top order mainstay, KL Rahul. While Rahul’s exit marks the end of an era for LSG, the franchise has confirmed the retention of some key talents and promising uncapped players to solidify their lineup for the upcoming season.
Let’s have a look into more details: KL Rahul- LSG
KL Rahul’s Departure: A New Chapter for LSG
KL Rahul, a marquee player and the highest run-scorer for LSG, is officially moving on. His impressive record, with over 1,400 runs at a strike rate of 130.6, helped LSG achieve significant success in their debut season. However, differences with the franchise’s management and an inconsistent strike rate led LSG to reconsider their future together. Following a season marked by controversies, including a public reprimand by franchise owner Sanjeev Goenka, Rahul’s departure from LSG has now been confirmed. This decision opens the door for other teams to acquire Rahul’s talents, potentially making him one of the most coveted players in the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Nicholas Pooran: LSG’s Prime Retention and Potential Leader
Taking the lead spot in LSG’s retentions, West Indian powerhouse Nicholas Pooran is all set to be the team’s batting linchpin. Pooran’s retention at a whopping ₹18 crore underscores his value to LSG, especially after a remarkable Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season where he amassed 504 runs at a blistering strike rate close to 170. His consistent power hitting and match winning capabilities make him a potential captaincy candidate for the team. Pooran’s leadership skills could be a game changer, bringing a fresh perspective to LSG’s on field strategies.
Mayank Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi: Reinforcing the Bowling Arsenal
To build a robust bowling lineup, LSG has retained two Indian bowling talents: pacer Mayank Yadav and spinner Ravi Bishnoi. With a retention value of ₹11 crore, Mayank Yadav is an investment in both raw pace and potential. Known for consistently hitting speeds of 150+ km/h, Yadav has captured the attention of cricket enthusiasts with his wicket taking prowess. His ability to bowl incisive spells makes him an asset, especially in pressure situations.
Ravi Bishnoi, LSG’s leading wicket taker, brings his sharp wrist-spin to the table at ₹14 crore. Bishnoi’s consistency and knack for breakthroughs make him a key piece in LSG’s bowling department, ensuring stability and control over the middle overs.
Uncapped Stars Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan: LSG’s Young Gems
The BCCI has allowed franchises to retain two uncapped players, and LSG has wisely chosen to invest in Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan. Badoni, a rising star in Indian cricket, showcased his explosive batting skills in the Delhi Premier League T20 (DPLT20), where he scored 522 runs at an astounding strike rate of 225. Known for his aggressive playing style, Badoni is a middle order dynamo capable of single-handedly altering the course of a game.
Mohsin Khan, LSG’s leading wicket-taker among pacers, has consistently delivered in crucial matches. His left-arm pace and ability to generate bounce add a unique dimension to LSG’s bowling attack. Injuries may have plagued him last season, but his recent performances in the UPT20 league, where he took 15 wickets with an economy of 6.95, reaffirm his potential.
LSG’s Retention List for IPL 2025
LSG has built a core of strong players to maximize their ₹69 crore auction purse strategically.
- Nicholas Pooran (₹18 crore) – Power-hitter and potential captain.
- Ravi Bishnoi (₹14 crore) – Lead spinner and key middle overs operator.
- Mayank Yadav (₹11 crore) – Express pacer with wicket taking ability.
- Ayush Badoni (₹4 crore, uncapped) – Emerging middle order talent.
- Mohsin Khan (₹4 crore, uncapped) – Consistent left arm pacer.
With KL Rahul’s departure and a new team core emerging, LSG has some exciting options ahead. The franchise is reportedly considering exercising the Right to Match (RTM) card for Marcus Stoinis, a seasoned all-rounder who brings both batting and bowling depth. Stoinis, who scored 388 runs and picked up 4 wickets last season, could provide the balance LSG needs to remain competitive.
LSG’s retention strategy is shaping up to be a bold, forward-looking approach to build a dynamic team capable of securing an IPL title. With the captaincy up for grabs, a young core, and a substantial purse for the meg
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