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Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have embarked on a new chapter in their IPL journey, parting ways with KL Rahul after a challenging IPL 2024 season. Despite guiding the team to consecutive playoffs in previous seasons, Rahul’s departure has set the stage for LSG to redefine their leadership dynamics as they gear up for IPL 2025.
During the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, LSG grabbed eyeballs by breaking records with a ₹27 crore winning bid for wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant. This acquisition made Pant the most expensive player in IPL auction history, signalling LSG’s intent to rebuild and aim for their maiden IPL title.
LSG’s captaincy contenders for IPL 2025
With Rahul’s exit, the franchise faces the critical task of appointing a new captain. Three players have emerged as frontrunners to take up the leadership role:
1. Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant is widely seen as the top contender for LSG’s captaincy. Known for his fearless batting and innovative tactics, Pant brings a wealth of experience, having previously led the Delhi Capitals (DC) to 23 victories in 43 matches. His ability to thrive in high-pressure situations and lead from the front makes him an ideal choice.
Acquiring Pant for a record price underscores LSG’s confidence in his abilities, not only as a player but also as a potential leader capable of driving the team toward success.
2. Nicholas Pooran
Nicholas Pooran, retained by LSG for ₹21 crore, also stands out as a strong captaincy candidate. With leadership experience from his time as the West Indies skipper in ODIs and T20Is, Pooran’s calm demeanor under pressure has been a hallmark of his career.
Over the past two IPL seasons, Pooran has scored 857 runs at an impressive strike rate of 175, showcasing his reliability as a match-winner. His leadership qualities could provide LSG with the stability needed to navigate the challenges of the IPL.
Also READ: 3 players who can captain Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL 2025
3. Aiden Markram
Aiden Markram emerges as a dark horse in the captaincy race. Acquired for ₹2 crore, Markram has a proven track record as a leader, having captained South Africa in all formats and guided Sunrisers Eastern Cape to consecutive SA20 titles.
Markram’s strategic approach and composed temperament could add a new dimension to LSG’s game plan, making him a compelling choice for the leadership role.
What’s next for LSG?
As LSG strategies for IPL 2025, the choice of captain will be pivotal in shaping the franchise’s future. Each contender brings unique strengths: Pant’s dynamism, Pooran’s consistency, and Markram’s tactical brilliance.
With a revamped squad and high expectations, LSG is poised to make a strong push for their first IPL title. The decision on the captaincy is expected to set the tone for their campaign and could define their journey in the league for years to come.
