IPL 2024: LSG likely to release 8-9 players in team overhaul

Lucknow Super Giants are gearing up for a significant transformation ahead of the upcoming IPL edition as the team is poised to release a notable contingent of about eight to nine players, paving the way for a considerable reserve of 20-25 crore INR for the December 19 auction. Despite their consistent playoff qualifications, the team is seeking a revamp to bolster their prospects.

Reports from Cricbuzz indicate a strategic decision by the newly appointed coach, Justin Langer, to part ways with players like Manan Vohra, Suryansh Shedge, Karan Sharma, and Swapnil Singh, among others. Vohra, a Punjab-based top-order batter, had minimal game time in the previous season. Mumbai's all-rounder Shedge, bought at his base price last year, and Sharma, acquired in 2022, also saw limited opportunities on the field. Swapnil Singh, the experienced 32-year-old all-rounder with domestic cricket exposure, was part of the team last year but is now on the release list.

Despite LSG's consistent presence in the playoffs in recent years, their bid for the title has fallen short, notably in the 2023 season where they finished third in the league but missed out on the final berth for the second consecutive time. With the impending auction and a shift in personnel, the franchise seeks a strategic reconfiguration to potentially elevate their performance in the highly competitive IPL arena.

LSG mentor Gautam Gambhir part ways with franchise

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer, departed from Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL to reunite with Kolkata Knight Riders, a team he led to two championship victories. Gambhir played a mentoring role for LSG for two seasons, aiding their journey to playoffs in the both the editions. Despite LSG's third-place finish in the 2023, they missed the final berth for a second consecutive year.

As per reports, Chennai Super Kings are set to bid adieu to some prominent figures, notably Ben Stokes, who opted out, and the retired Ambati Rayudu. Additional exits include Bhagath Varma, Subhranshu Senapati, Sisanda Magala, and Kyle Jamieson. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders are releasing Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, and Shardul Thakur, marking a shift in their roster ahead of the forthcoming season's challenges.