IPL 2025: Nicholas Pooran to Replace KL Rahul As LSG Captain

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Read Original Content: IPL 2025: Nicholas Pooran to Replace KL Rahul As LSG Captain

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are gearing up for a new era by appointing Nicholas Pooran as their captain, replacing KL Rahul, who is likely to part ways with the franchise. This move comes ahead of the IPL 2025 mega option, scheduled for late next month. Alongside Pooran, LSG has decided to retain Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohsin Khan, and Ayush Badoni, with plans to use a Right to Match (RTM) card during the option if needed.

Nicholas Pooran Takes Charge of LSG’s Future

Nicholas Pooran’s selection as captain isn’t surprising. The left-handed batter was LSG’s second-highest run-scorer last season, only behind KL Rahul. Moreover, he took over wicketkeeping duties when Rahul was sidelined due to an injury. With his explosive batting and leadership potential, Pooran is now seen as the franchise’s central figure.

Starting his IPL journey with Mumbai Indians in 2017 for just INR 30 lakhs, Pooran’s value has skyrocketed over the years. He was bought by Punjab Kings for INR 4.2 crore in 2019 and later snapped up by SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) for a whopping INR 10.75 crore in 2022. SRH, however, released him after a season. In 2023, LSG invested heavily in Pooran, purchasing him for INR 16 crore, a price likely to rise further in the upcoming option.

LSG’s Retentions and Purse Impact

As the retention deadline of October 31 approaches, LSG became the second franchise after SRH to submit their final list. However, unlike SRH, LSG hasn’t disclosed the retention costs for individual players. According to IPL rules, a deduction of INR 51 crore will apply to LSG’s option purse for retaining five players. If the total player cost exceeds this amount, the franchise will need to adjust from the INR 120 crore purse available to all teams.

Ravi Bishnoi, who joined LSG in 2022 for INR 4 crore, will continue to play a key role in their bowling attack.

Mayank Yadav, a young pacer known for his searing pace and match-winning performances, was retained after making an impressive debut last season. Both Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni, purchased for INR 20 lakh each in the IPL 2022 option, have also cemented their places in the squad. Mohsin’s left-arm pace brought him 14 wickets in just nine matches during his debut season, while Badoni has become a reliable middle-order batter known for his aggressive hitting.

Read Original Content: IPL 2025: Nicholas Pooran to Replace KL Rahul As LSG Captain

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