New Look Lucknow Super Giants Aim for Improved Success Under Rishabh Pant | Cricbuzz.com

### IPL 2025 – Team Preview: Lucknow Super Giants Seek Resurgence Under Rishabh Pant’s Leadership

**By Chirag Rajesh**

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are poised for a rejuvenated campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, guided by the dynamic leadership of Rishabh Pant. The addition of Pant, who joins the team for a record-breaking INR 27 crore, marks a significant shift for the franchise, aiming to transform their fortunes after a seventh-place finish in the 2024 season and the subsequent departure of former captain KL Rahul.

**Strategic Upgrades and New Leadership**

Despite being a relatively young franchise with just three IPL seasons under their belt, LSG has demonstrated potential, securing two playoff berths in earlier editions. Their decision to bring in Rishabh Pant, not only as a player but as a leader, signals a bold new direction. The team also welcomed Zaheer Khan as mentor, bringing extensive experience to the coaching setup.

At the player retention stage, LSG retained a blend of experience and promising talent. Nicholas Pooran, valued at INR 21 Crore, alongside notable Indian players Ravi Bishnoi and Mayank Yadav, each retained for INR 11 Crore, anchor the squad. Additional uncapped talent like Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni have been retained to fortify the team’s depth. The pace department has been bolstered with the reacquisition of Avesh Khan and the inclusion of Akash Deep, though lingering injury concerns hover over pivotal Indian pacers Mayank, Mohsin, and Avesh.

**A Revamped Overseas Contingent**

LSG has reconstructed their overseas lineup, acquiring explosive talents such as David Miller, Mitchell Marsh, and Matthew Breetzke to reinvigorate the batting lineup that struggled in the middle overs last season. With the departure of seasoned players Quinton de Kock and Marcus Stoinis, the team secures the services of South Africa’s T20I captain Aiden Markram, expecting him to instill both stability and aggression.

**Injury and Fitness Concerns**

Entering the new season, fitness remains a pivotal concern, particularly for their domestic pacers. Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan have seen limited action post IPL 2024, with Avesh Khan also racing to full recovery. Mitchell Marsh’s recent return from a back injury poses another potential challenge as management weighs his availability over an intense league phase.

**Key Players and Prospective Stars**

Rishabh Pant, carrying the mantle of the league’s most expensive player, has a pivotal season ahead to reaffirm his standing on the international stage following a hiatus from both the Champions Trophy and the T20I series against England. Meanwhile, Akash Deep emerges as a potential breakout star. Acquired for INR 8 crore, Deep is poised to seize this opportunity, particularly in light of the injuries impacting LSG’s pace arsenal.

**Fixture Overview and Tactical Insights**

LSG’s campaign kicks off with away fixtures against the Delhi Capitals and the Sunrisers Hyderabad. They will make their home debut on April 1, hosting five out of their seven home games during the month. The travel schedule is favorably structured, avoiding excessive consecutive away games and ensuring regular returns to their home venue.

One tactical aspect to monitor at the Ekana Stadium is its unique characteristics. Historically, it has recorded a modest average first-innings total of 165, the lowest amongst IPL venues. As the league evolves, it will be intriguing to observe if batters can adapt to these conditions favorably.

*Statistical insights provided by Deepu Narayanan*

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Lucknow Super Giants, enhanced by strategic signings and helm guidance from Rishabh Pant, are poised to demonstrate their standing in IPL 2025, ready to overcome past challenges and craft a narrative of success.