Welcome to our IPL 2026 Release List Series, where we explore every team and the tough choices they face before the next auction. Now, we turn the spotlight on Lucknow Super Giants.
Lucknow Super Giants’ 2025 campaign was a mix of brilliance and frustration. They had the firepower, but consistency deserted them at key moments. Too often, the team looked like a collection of talented individuals rather than a well-oiled unit. As they plan for IPL 2026, LSG must sharpen their core and free up space for players who can deliver under pressure.
1️⃣ Mayank Yadav – Fast Bowler – ₹11 crore
There’s no doubting Mayank Yadav’s talent, he’s one of India’s fastest and most exciting young quicks. But his biggest opponent hasn’t been the batters, it’s been his own fitness. Frequent injury layoffs kept him on the side-lines for most of 2025. At ₹11 crore, that’s a heavy investment for someone who hasn’t played enough games. The franchise could release him and aim to buy him back at a lower price, banking on his long-term potential but with less financial strain.
2️⃣ Akash Deep – Fast Bowler – ₹8 crore
Akash Deep arrived with promise but couldn’t quite translate it into performances. His spells often lacked control during crucial overs, and he struggled to provide breakthroughs when it mattered. At ₹8 crore, he looks an expensive backup option.
3️⃣ Abdul Samad – Batter – ₹4.2 crore
Samad’s power-hitting potential has never been questioned, but his execution under pressure has. He’s played the role of a finisher without really owning it, often getting out in key moments. For a side that already relies on top-heavy batting, Samad’s inconsistency and lack of adaptability lower his value. Releasing him would give LSG room to scout a homegrown player who can rotate strike and finish games smarter.
Lucknow have the right core. But to truly challenge for the title, they need durability and sharper bowling depth.
LSG fans — your opinions count! Which release do you agree with, and who should stay as the team recharges for 2026? Drop your thoughts below and keep the conversation alive as we move to the next team in our IPL 2026 Release List Series!
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