IPL 2025: LSG to retain Nicholas Pooran for eye-catching price; KL Rahul is not in the plans

With the player retention deadline approaching on October 31, IPL franchises are busy making plans to retain players for the upcoming 2025 season. Teams are evaluating their options, deciding between keeping players, using Right to Match (RTM) cards, or allowing certain players to leave to create more budget space. This critical decision-making period has generated a lot of excitement, as reports have emerged about which athletes will play a key role in each team’s plans for the new season.

LSG’s final strategy leading up to the IPL 2025 auction

As reported by ESPNcricinfo, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have confirmed their list of players they intend to retain for the IPL 2025 auction. The franchise plans to retain key players such as Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Ayush Badoniagain Mohsin Khan. This time, Pooran is expected to end up in the limelight, with indications that he will be retained for a significant amount.

Financial considerations for LSG reserve players

While the specific contract values ​​of these players remain undisclosed, IPL maintenance guidelines stipulate that INR 51 crore will be deducted from the LSG’s auction budget. If the total compensation of the retained players exceeds this figure, a large amount will be deducted from the budget of INR 120 million allocated to each franchise to build their teams for IPL 2025.

KL Rahul’s future is uncertain with LSG

In a surprising twist, KL Rahul may be released in the last LSG strategy. The player, who has served as captain since the franchise’s inception in 2022, is not expected to remain with the team unless there are last-minute changes. Speculations are rife that LSG may opt to use their RTM card during the auction, raising the possibility of Rahul returning to his former club, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

ALSO READ: 3 teams to bid for KL Rahul if LSG release him ahead of IPL 2025 auction

Nicholas Pooran: LSG’s last first choice

Pooran is expected to be the top keeper of LSG at a cost of around INR 18 crore. He played a key role last season, finishing as one of the leading run-scorers behind Rahul, and took over as interim captain and wicketkeeper when Rahul was dropped. Pooran was acquired by LSG for INR 16 crore ahead of the 2023 season, and his reliable performances have cemented his importance in the team.

Rising stars

Mayank has emerged as a player to watch, showing his incredible speed by bowling at 150 km/h every time. His impressive performances in the 2024 season earned him two Player-of-the-Match awards in his opening matches, leading to his selection for India’s T20 series against Bangladesh. Bishnoi, who was among LSG’s first choices ahead of the IPL 2022 auction, has developed into a seasoned player with valuable international experience. Despite a modest season last year, he continues to be a valuable contributor to the team.

Future prospects

Badoni and Mohsin have played a key role in LSG’s journey since they were signed for INR 20 lakhs each in the 2022 auction. Badoni, known for his powerful hitting style and finishing ability, remains a promising prospect. Meanwhile, Mohsin has made a name for himself with his pace and accuracy, claiming 10 wickets in 10 matches last season and establishing himself as a reliable option in LSG’s bowling attack.

As the reserve deadline approaches, LSG’s selection shows their commitment to retaining a core group of players who have shown strength and consistency, aiming to build a strong squad for the IPL 2025 season.

Also READ: 3 reasons why KKR should retain Andre Russell ahead of IPL 2025