Irfan Pathan Analyzes Lucknow Super Giants' IPL 2026 Strategy

In a recent analysis, Irfan Pathan discussed the Lucknow Super Giants' strategy for the IPL 2026 season, focusing on the team's reliance on leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi and the need for additional batting strength. He highlighted the competitive auction for Bishnoi and the impact of new players like Anrich Nortje and Wanindu Hasaranga. Despite a strong bowling lineup, Pathan emphasized the ongoing concerns regarding the lower-order batting, which remains a challenge for the team. Aakash Chopra also weighed in on the batting order's effectiveness, particularly the performance of key players. This analysis provides a comprehensive look at LSG's preparations for the upcoming season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 24, 2025, 14:46 IST

Concerns Over Ravi Bishnoi's Role

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan expressed that Rishabh Pant, the captain of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), did not place his trust in leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi during the IPL 2025 season. Bishnoi, who had a base price of ₹2 crore, was acquired by Rajasthan Royals (RR) for ₹7.4 crore in the recent IPL 2026 auction. The bidding for Bishnoi was competitive, with franchises like CSK, RR, and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) also vying for him. Ultimately, he joined the Royals. In his T20 career, Bishnoi has played 42 matches, taking 61 wickets at an impressive average of 19.37, including two instances of claiming four wickets in a match.

Analysis of LSG's Squad Balance

At 25 years old, Bishnoi participated in 11 IPL matches last year for the Lucknow franchise, achieving nine wickets with an economy rate of 10.83. While discussing the 'Tata IPL Auction Review', Pathan evaluated LSG's squad balance for the upcoming IPL 2026 season, highlighting key player acquisitions. He noted that with the inclusion of Anrich Nortje and Wanindu Hasaranga, LSG has solid options, particularly in the fast bowling department, which was crucial. If the pace bowlers remain fit, they could form a formidable unit. Hasaranga's addition is significant, especially since Pant previously hesitated to rely on Bishnoi. Acquired for ₹2 crore, Hasaranga presents a reliable and economical choice.

Need for Additional Batting Strength

Pathan pointed out that despite having batsmen like Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad, LSG requires another top-tier batsman. He expressed hope for a player like Livingstone to join the ranks. Overall, the team needs at least five more high-quality batsmen. Former Indian cricketer and JioStar analyst Aakash Chopra also commented on LSG's batting and lower-order concerns.

Batting Order Challenges

Chopra mentioned that while LSG has retained Rishabh Pant at number three, the batting order still raises questions. Pant is capable of playing higher up the order, and last season, the top order was exceptional, with three of the top four batsmen scoring over 500 runs—a rare feat. The real issue lay in the lower order, where players like David Miller struggled to perform consistently at the fifth, sixth, and seventh positions. This season, LSG boasts a bowling lineup featuring Hasaranga, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, and Mayank Yadav, along with options like Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, and Arjun Tendulkar. Despite these improvements, the lower-order batting remains a concern that has yet to be fully addressed.