SRK, Starc & Hazlewood; Who Else LSG Needs To Buy In IPL Auctions 2024?

image-lpv0nox7KL Rahul will lead LSG in IPL 2024 

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up for its 17th season, a fresh narrative is taking shape, centred around the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This relatively new team, having joined the league in 2022, has quickly become a symbol of vibrant potential in the IPL arena. Despite being on the brink of greatness twice, reaching the playoffs in their first two seasons, the ultimate trophy has remained tantalisingly elusive.

Now, as the IPL 2024 auction looms, LSG faces a new challenge. Operating with the smallest budget of just INR 13.15 crores, they are stepping into the auction arena with a strategy that speaks volumes of their confidence in their core team. Their approach is not about sweeping changes but about fine-tuning, finding those key players who can fill in the missing pieces of their puzzle. 

This balancing act is what will determine their fate in the upcoming season. Here’s an in-depth LSG SWOT analysis ahead of IPL 2024:

LSG - IPL 2024 Retained Players

KL Rahul (C), Quinton De Kock, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Kyle Mayers, Marcus Stoinis, Deepak Hooda, Devdutt Padikkal (From RR), Ravi Bishnoi, Naveen Ul Haq, Krunal Pandya, Yudhvir Singh, Prerak Mankad, Yash Thakur, Amit Mishra, Mark Wood, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan.

LSG Remaining Purse: INR 13.15 crore

LSG Slots Available: 6

Overseas Slots: 2


IPL 2024 - LSG Squad Analysis

Let's take a look at LSG's strengths and weaknesses:

Strength of LSG for IPL 2024

  • As the 2024 IPL season approaches, LSG stands out with a batting brigade that is the envy of many. Leading the charge is captain KL Rahul, accompanied by the dynamic Quinton de Kock, Nicholas Pooran and the explosive Kyle Mayers. Their batting might is further bolstered by the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Krunal Pandya, and Deepak Hooda, each a force to be reckoned with in their own right.
  • Adding to this already formidable lineup is the latest sensation, Devdutt Padikkal, acquired through a strategic trade with Rajasthan Royals. Padikkal's entry into the team is not just an addition; it's an injection of raw, exhilarating firepower, set to elevate LSG's batting to new heights.
  • But LSG's strength isn't limited to established stars. The team has a keen eye for emerging talent, particularly in scouting young Indian players from the domestic circuit. In the previous IPL season, the likes of Ayush Badoni, Prerak Mankad, and Mohsin Khan, despite an injury setback in the middle of the season, showcased their exceptional skills, leaving a lasting impression on fans and critics alike. The potential infusion of new young talent into the team at IPL 2024 auction is a move that promises to strengthen LSG's already impressive squad.

Weakness of LSG for IPL 2024

  • LSG’s Achilles' heel lies exposed in the bowling department. Last season's story revealed a chink in their armour, particularly during the crucial Eliminator against Mumbai Indians. Despite setting a formidable target of 182, LSG's bowling faltered, unable to stem the flow of runs. This vulnerability led to an 81-run defeat.
  • LSG's bowling line-up, predominantly comprising young Indian talents like Ravi Bishnoi, Yash Thakur, and Mohsin Khan, shows promise but lacks the seasoning and the elusive 'X-factor' that often turns the tide in critical moments. The lack of experience in their pace department is a huge weakness that LSG would look to sort at IPL 2024 auction.

Areas to fill for LSG in IPL 2024 Auction

  1. LSG’s batting and spin department looks secure. However, the departure of seasoned pacers like Jaydev Unadkat and Daniel Sams has left a void, signalling a crucial area of focus for the team's strategists in the upcoming auction. Adding to the concern is the presence of injury-prone Mark Wood and Naveen-ul-Haq, who, while skilled, bring an element of uncertainty to the team's plans.
  2. LSG's think tank will be acutely aware of the need for an additional overseas pace bowler, someone who can partner effectively with the existing lineup and inject consistency and world-class bowling skills into the team. As the competition intensifies, the lack of a consistent, world-class bowling attack could be a looming shadow over LSG's aspirations.

Possible Target Players for LSG in IPL 2024 Auction

  1. As LSG strategizes for the IPL 2024 auction, they will have their sights set on specific players to boost their squad. Topping their wishlist could be stellar overseas pacers like Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. The inclusion of either of these bowling maestros could revolutionize LSG's attack, providing either a formidable partner to Mark Wood or a replacement, should the need arise. An experienced pacer of their calibre would infuse much-needed dynamism into LSG's bowling lineup.
  2. Another intriguing prospect for LSG is Shahrukh Khan, a player renowned for his finishing capabilities. Shahrukh's ability to propel the innings in the final overs and chip in with crucial overs makes him a valuable asset. His potential acquisition would fill the gap for an explosive Indian finisher, a role that LSG will ve keen to strengthen.
  3. Additionally, LSG could also be eyeing someone like Rovman Powell, a powerhouse in the middle order. Powell, previously with Delhi Capitals and now back in the auction pool, is known for his explosive batting. His hard-hitting skills and ability to change the course of an innings make him an attractive option for LSG, who will look to bolster their middle order.