The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) had a disappointing campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, finishing in the 7th position on the points table after struggling with consistency. The team, under new leadership (Rishabh Pant) and a high-profile squad reshuffle, failed to find the winning rhythm that characterized their previous playoff runs.

Despite the overall poor standing, individual overseas firepower was a clear positive, most notably from Mitchell Marshwho was the team’s highest run-scorer with 627 runs, including a century. Nicholas Pooran delivered consistent explosive finishes, registering 524 runs at an incredible strike rate. However, a lack of consistent contributions from the Indian batting unit and an inability to defend high scores on their home ground were cited as the primary reasons for their early exit from the league stage.

3 overseas players LSG can retain ahead of IPL 2026 Auction

1. Nicholas Pooran (Wicketkeeper-Batter)

Pooran is the most crucial overseas retention for LSG, serving as their explosive middle-order anchor and vice-captain. He was retained/acquired for a massive sum (INR 21.0 crore) before IPL 2025, highlighting his status as a marquee player.  Pooran delivered an exceptional 2025 season, scoring 524 runs at a staggering strike rate of 196.25, cementing his reputation as one of the best finishers in the world. His ability to hit boundaries at will, combined with his dual role as a wicketkeeper, provides immense structural value to the side, making his retention a central priority to secure their aggressive middle-order core.

2. Mitchell Marsh (Batting All-Rounder)

Marsh is an irresistible retention candidate given his phenomenal batting performance in IPL 2025, where he was LSG’s leading run-scorer. He amassed 627 runs at an average of 48.23 and a strike rate of over 163, including a century, showcasing his ability to dominate opponents at the top of the order. While his bowling contributions were limited in the 2025 season, his potential as a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder adds essential flexibility and balance to the squad composition. Securing Marsh, who was acquired for a relatively low price (INR 3.4 crore), gives LSG an explosive, cost-effective, and high-impact match-winner.

3. Aiden Markram (Batter/Part-time Off-Spinner)

Aiden Markram is a strategic retention for LSG due to his consistency and versatility in the batting order. He was secured for a low cost (INR 2.0 crore) in the IPL 2025 auction. Markram had a very productive season, scoring 445 runs in 13 matches at a healthy average of 34.23 and a strike rate of nearly 149, including five half-centuries. He provides composure and stability in the top order, which complements the high-risk approach of other batters. Retaining him ensures LSG has a reliable, Capped international batter who can also chip in with handy overs of off-spin, offering excellent value for money in a specialist overseas slot.