Why LSG might win IPL 2025? - Explained

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), which made its debut in 2022, has built a reputation for being a solid team. Their first two seasons saw them reach the playoffs, but IPL 2024 didn't go the way they would have wanted to, finishing in 7th place. However, ahead of IPL 2025, LSG has made some bold changes, including the release of KL Rahul and the acquisition of Rishabh Pant for a record-breaking INR 27 crore. With a revamped squad, the Lucknow franchise has a good chance of lifting their maiden IPL title this season.

Rishabh Pant can be the X-factor leader

LSG’s biggest decision in the IPL 2025 auction was bringing in Pant. The Southpaw who bats with an aggressive mindset will add a new perspective to the team. Pant as a batter has scored 3284 runs in 111 IPL matches and his leadership experience from Delhi Capitals (43 matches, 23 wins) makes him a solid choice for captaincy. Although Pant has faced challenges as a captain, however, LSG’s squad will provide him with the perfect platform to display his leadership skills. His style can push the team to play bold cricket. If Pant can find his best form with the bat and lead from the front, LSG could be a serious title contender.

Firepower in the batting line-up

LSG’s batting unit looks stronger than ever, with a mix of power-hitters and players who can anchor the innings. Nicholas Pooran who was retained by the side can tear apart the bowling attacks. In IPL 2024 the West Indian scored 499 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 178.21. With the likes of David Miller and Aiden Markram, the middle order has become more strong. Miller’s ability to finish games and his experience in pressure situations will be the key going forward. Meanwhile, Markram will be given the role of anchoring the innings. Furthermore, Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad will add depth to their batting unit.

Quality bowling attack

LSG has put together a clinical bowling unit for the season. The team has invested heavily in Indian pacers, with Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Avesh Khan forming a strong pace trio. However, with all three of them being injured the side has to quickly think about that. The side also secured Shamar Joseph, who can swing the ball at good speeds. Akashdeep and Rajvardhan Hangargekar are also reliable options to step up if required. On the spin front, Ravi Bishnoi will lead that department, though he had a below-par IPL 2024. However, with Shahbaz Ahmed and Abdul Samad by his side, LSG’s spin department has the potential to tackle the opposition batters and control the middle overs.

Balanced squad

One of LSG’s biggest strengths this season is the talented players they have got in their side. The team has multiple all-rounders who can contribute with both bat and ball. Mitchell Marsh, despite being available only as a batter due to a back injury, will be important at the top of the order. Furthermore, young Indian players like Arshin Kulkarni and Yuvraj Chaudhary will bring new and fresh energy. Kulkarni was Maharashtra’s top run-scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, while Chaudhary’s batting in the Uttarakhand Premier League has made him a player to watch out for.