The IPL 2026 auction is fast approaching, and Lucknow Super Giants are meticulously planning their LSG retention 2026 strategy to reshape their squad after a lackluster IPL 2025 season. Finishing seventh with only seven wins, Lucknow Super Giants missed the playoffs, hampered by an underperforming bowling unit and inconsistent batting. With a purse of INR 120 crore and the ability to retain up to six players (five capped, two uncapped), LSG retention 2026 decisions will be pivotal. The INR 27 crore signing of Rishabh Pant last season looms large—will he stay or go? Here’s a detailed look at Lucknow Super Giants’ likely IPL retentions and their auction strategy.
Lucknow Super Giants’ IPL 2025: A Season to Reflect On
The Lucknow Super Giants struggled in IPL 2025, with their bowling unit conceding runs at an economy rate of over 10, the highest in the tournament. Rishabh Pant, acquired as a marquee signing, underperformed as both batter and captain, raising questions about his place in the LSG retention 2026 list. However, Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni provided bright spots with their batting, while Mohsin Khan showed promise with the ball. As the IPL 2026 auction nears, Lucknow Super Giants aim to retain a core group to address weaknesses in their pace attack and top order.
Likely LSG Retention 2026 List
The LSG retention 2026 strategy will focus on players who bring consistency, versatility, and long-term value to Lucknow Super Giants. Here’s the probable list of IPL retentions:
- Nicholas Pooran (Capped, Estimated INR 20 crore)
Nicholas Pooran has been the heartbeat of Lucknow Super Giants since joining in 2023. In IPL 2025, he smashed runs at a strike rate of over 175, excelling as a middle-order finisher. His flexibility to bat at No. 3, 4, or 5, combined with his wicketkeeping skills, makes him a cornerstone of LSG retention 2026. Pooran’s leadership experience positions him as a potential captain, especially if Rishabh Pant is released. His retention is a certainty for Lucknow Super Giants. - Ayush Badoni (Uncapped, Estimated INR 4 crore)
Ayush Badoni, a rising star, has solidified his role as a middle-order anchor for Lucknow Super Giants. His ability to tackle spin and pace, showcased in domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, makes him a valuable uncapped pick for LSG retention 2026. At INR 4 crore, Badoni offers excellent value, freeing up funds for the IPL 2026 auction while securing a future asset. - Mohsin Khan (Uncapped, Estimated INR 4 crore)
Mohsin Khan, the left-arm pacer, brings swing and control to Lucknow Super Giants’ bowling attack. His 10 wickets in IPL 2024 and a stellar 15-wicket haul in SMAT 2024 highlight his potential. Despite a less impactful IPL 2025 due to team-wide bowling struggles, his low cost and skill set make him a strong candidate for LSG retention 2026. Mohsin Khan is a key piece for Lucknow Super Giants’ pace unit. - Aiden Markram (Capped, Estimated INR 10 crore)
The South African all-rounder was a standout in IPL 2025, providing stability and off-spin for Lucknow Super Giants. Markram’s leadership experience and adaptability across conditions make him a vital part of LSG retention 2026. His dual role ensures Lucknow Super Giants have flexibility in their line-up for the IPL 2026 auction. - Akash Deep (Capped, Estimated INR 8 crore)
Acquired for INR 8 crore in IPL 2025, Akash Deep brings raw pace and swing to Lucknow Super Giants. His recent 10-wicket haul in the India vs. England 3rd Test at Edgbaston underscores his form. While his retention is not guaranteed due to budget constraints, his potential to lead the pace attack makes him a likely pick for LSG retention 2026.
Tough Calls: Who Might Miss LSG Retention 2026?
The biggest question for Lucknow Super Giants is Rishabh Pant. His lackluster IPL 2025 performance as a batter and captain has sparked debate about his LSG retention 2026 status. Releasing Rishabh Pant would free up INR 27 crore for the IPL 2026 auction, allowing Lucknow Super Giants to pursue top talents like Jos Buttler or Sanju Samson. However, Pant’s explosive batting and marketability could see him retained at a negotiated lower cost.
Other potential releases include Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan. Mayank’s injury-plagued IPL 2025, where he missed most matches, and Avesh’s expensive spells (INR 9.75 crore) make their inclusion in LSG retention 2026 doubtful. Ravi Bishnoi, despite his leg-spin promise, may also be released due to a high economy rate, though Lucknow Super Giants could use their Right-to-Match (RTM) card in the IPL 2026 auction to re-sign him at a better price.
IPL 2026 Auction Strategy
With an estimated INR 65–70 crore remaining after LSG retention 2026, Lucknow Super Giants have room to rebuild. Releasing Rishabh Pant or high-cost pacers could boost their purse to INR 90 crore, enabling bids for marquee players like Kagiso Rabada or Cameron Green in the IPL 2026 auction. Lucknow Super Giants will prioritize strengthening their pace attack, which faltered in IPL 2025, and adding a top-order batter and backup wicketkeeper to support Nicholas Pooran.
Outlook for Lucknow Super Giants
The LSG retention 2026 list will likely center on Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Mohsin Khan, Markram, and Akash Deep, balancing experience with youth. The decision on Rishabh Pant will shape Lucknow Super Giants’ approach to the IPL 2026 auction. With Nicholas Pooran as a probable captain, Lucknow Super Giants are poised to reset after a tough IPL 2025. The IPL 2026 auction, expected in late 2025, offers a chance for Lucknow Super Giants to build a title-contending squad. Fans can anticipate a revitalized Lucknow Super Giants ready to roar back into contention.