Overview:
Lucknow Super Giants will kick off their IPL 2026 season against Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Stadium on April 1.
Former India pacer Lakshmipathy Balaji has expressed concerns over Lucknow Super Giants’ dependence on their overseas batters at the top of the order. He believes Indian players like Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, and captain Rishabh Pant can shoulder the responsibility in the upcoming IPL season starting March 28. After finishing seventh in IPL 2025, Pant’s side will be eager to contend for their first title. The franchise made minimal changes during the mini-auction, focusing on continuity while investing in young talent.
“The top order, featuring Marsh, Aiden Markram, and Nicholas Pooran, is very strong. They provided solid starts and often outperformed the opposition last season. The issues were more with the bowling, captaincy, and leadership tactics. The team relies significantly on its overseas batters,” Balaji told Jio Hotstar.
“You also have players like Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, and Shahbaz Ahmed who can contribute, but the bulk of the responsibility will fall on the top order and Rishabh Pant. Regarding the overseas combination, I would usually go with three batters, so the first-choice trio Marsh, Aiden Markram, and Nicholas Pooran—would be the ones to start,” he added.
The former CSK player said that if Wanindu Hasaranga is fit and available, he would be Lucknow Super Giants’ top pick for an overseas bowler, with Anrich Nortje set to fill in when the Sri Lankan all-rounder is unavailable.
“Next, the bowling unit needs reinforcement with an overseas fast bowler, especially since Hasaranga’s fitness is still uncertain. If he isn’t available, I would go with Anrich Nortje as the fourth overseas player,” he said.
Lucknow Super Giants will kick off their IPL 2026 season against Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Stadium on April 1.