In a significant move that has sent ripples through the Indian Premier League (IPL) fraternity, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are poised to retain Nicholas Pooran as their top pick ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. The West Indian all-rounder, known for his explosive batting and wicket-keeping abilities, is set to take on the captaincy role, leading the team in the upcoming season.
A Strategic Move by LSG
For the 2025 Indian Premier League, the Lucknow Super Giants want to keep Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, and the uncapped Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni.
LSG will have one right-to-match (RTM) card at the auction because KL Rahul, who has been the franchise’s leader since its founding in 2022, is unlikely to be kept unless both sides have a last-minute change of heart.
The decision to retain Pooran comes after a thorough assessment of LSG’s squad and future plans. With KL Rahul’s departure, the franchise is looking to rebuild its core and establish a new era. Pooran’s leadership qualities, coupled with his match-winning abilities, make him the ideal candidate to lead the team.
Although the exact amount for which the five players have signed is unknown, LSG’s budget would be reduced by INR 51 crore in accordance with the retention slabs established by the IPL. The INR 120 crore fund each franchise has been granted to assemble their teams for the 2025 Indian Premier League would be reduced by the greater amount if the total amount paid to the five surpasses 51 crore.
Pooran’s Impact on LSG
Pooran, 29, who is regarded as one of the game’s top power hitters, was acquired by LSG for INR 16 crore (about USD 1.927 million) before to the 2023 season. Since the Mumbai Indians purchased Pooran for INR 30 lakhs during his first IPL season in 2017, his price tag has continued to rise. He was purchased by Punjab Kings two years later for INR 4.2 crore, or around $575,000. Before releasing him a season later, Sunrisers Hyderabad paid INR 10.75 crore ($1.433 million at the time) at the 2022 mega auction.
Since joining LSG in 2023, Pooran has been a revelation. His explosive batting, ability to finish games, and leadership skills have made him a valuable asset to the team. He has consistently delivered match-winning performances, showcasing his class and potential.
Mayank Yadav
Mayank recorded deliveries of more than 150 kph in 2024 and won two Player-of-the-Match accolades in his first two IPL games. Even though he was only able to play four games due to a side injury, the national selectors swiftly placed him to their list of fast bowling contracts. Mayank, who was purchased by LSG for INR 20 lakhs in the 2024 auction, has only participated in seven T20 matches, including four in the IPL and his most recent international debut in the T20 series against Bangladesh. At the moment, Mayank is in Bengaluru at the BCCI’s recently opened Centre of Excellence.
Ravi Bishnoi
Bishnoi, who was uncapped at the time, was one of the three players LSG selected for INR 4 crore ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. When LSG qualified for the playoffs in 2022, Bishnoi took 13 wickets at an average of 8.44. With 16 wickets at 7.74 a year later, Bishnoi, who was now an international, was 13th on the list of top wicket-takers and helped LSG make it back to the playoffs. However, he only took 10 wickets at an average of 8.77 in 14 games last season.
A key factor in LSG’s success has been Badoni and Mohsin, who were both uncapped and purchased for INR 20 lakhs each in the 2022 auction. Badoni is an aggressive middle-order batsman who had his finest season in 2023, scoring 238 runs in 12 innings at a strike rate of 138. He recently represented India A in the Emerging Series as well.
With Pooran at the helm, LSG aims to build a strong and competitive team. The franchise will likely focus on retaining key players like Ravi Bishnoi and Mayank Yadav, while also exploring the auction market to fill the gaps in their squad.
The Impact on the IPL 2025 Auction
Pooran’s retention will significantly impact the IPL 2025 auction. With one fewer slot available, other teams will have to strategize their bids accordingly. The auction is expected to be highly competitive, with franchises vying for top talent to strengthen their squads.
Nicholas Pooran’s retention by LSG marks a new chapter in the franchise’s history. With a dynamic leader at the helm, LSG is poised to challenge for the IPL title in the upcoming seasons.
Key Takeaways:
- Nicholas Pooran is set to be LSG’s top retention.
- Pooran will likely captain the team in IPL 2025.
- LSG aims to build a strong team around Pooran.
- The IPL 2025 auction will be highly competitive.
As the IPL 2025 season approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating the exciting clashes and the potential for a new era in Indian cricket.
