The LSG will restore a firm squad of five players, with the first priority retention being in the overseas captivating finisher, Nicholas Pooran. Nicholas Pooran is the only overseas option that has been included in the side. Mayank Yadav, the new debutant pacer for the Indian team, Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni, are also set to be retained by the Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2025, as per a report by ESPN Cricinfo.
KL Rahul led the franchise since their debut in 2022. He has led them to two successive IPL playoffs before falling behind in the previous season of 2024. He is unlikely to be retained, which was indicated by reports for long.
If the LSG team retain five players, they would still be left with one RTM card. T20I all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has also not been shown the way of retention; hence, RTM might come into use here.
According to the player retention slabs as defined by the IPL committee, a minimum amount of INR 51 crores would be reduced from their purse owing to the retention of the five players. Pooran, Mayank, and Bishnoi can be retained for INR 18, 14, and 11 crores, respectively. Besides, the two uncapped players might be placed at INR 4 crores each.
Zaheer Khan takes over the role of LSG’s mentor for IPL 2025
The LSG side has left their mentor seat vacant since Gautam Gambhir went from the franchise to the Kolkata Knight Riders before the IPL edition of 2024.
Since then, only the head coach, Justin Langer, took over the role, as he continues to be the head coach in the upcoming season as well. While alongside the head coach, players like Adam Voges seen as the assistant coach and batting coach Lance Klusener might also be seen in their positions.
Jonty Rhodes, the best man known for his role, continues in his role. While they also parted ways with Morne Morkel, their previous bowling coach, the new mentor Zaheer Khan would be an asset for them in the dual role of a bowling coach as well.
