Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are grappling with a major fast bowling dilemma as they prepare for their opening match of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. With injuries plaguing key pacers Akash Deep, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, and Mayank Yadav, the franchise faces tough decisions before the season begins.
With just a few days left for their first match, LSG’s pace attack looks far from settled. While Mohsin Khan, retained ahead of the auction, has joined the squad, the fitness of Akash Deep, Avesh Khan, and Mayank Yadav remains a concern.
Injury Woes in the LSG Camp
Mayank Yadav, regarded as one of the rising stars in Indian cricket, is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. He has resumed bowling but is not yet at full strength. Akash Deep, who suffered a back injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, is unlikely to recover in time for the initial phase of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Avesh Khan has regained fitness but is yet to link up with the squad. Mohsin Khan, who recently suffered a minor calf strain, is being monitored closely by the LSG management.
Backup Plans in Place
To counter the injury crisis, LSG has turned to Shardul Thakur and Shivam Mavi, both of whom went unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction. Thakur and Mavi have been actively participating in practice sessions and match simulations. Thakur, known for his all-round capabilities, could add depth with both bat and ball, while Mavi’s pace and lower-order hitting make him a valuable asset.
Limited Overseas Options
LSG’s overseas pace options are limited. Shamar Joseph is the only foreign fast bowler in the squad, as Mitchell Marsh is unlikely to bowl due to injury concerns. This places additional pressure on the domestic pace attack to deliver early in the season.
Management’s Tough Call
The LSG coaching staff, led by Zaheer Khan, faces a tough decision — whether to persist with the injured pacers or secure backup contracts for Thakur and Mavi. Both bowlers have extensive IPL and domestic experience, making them reliable options. However, the management must weigh the risks of relying on players recovering from injuries.
With the season fast approaching, LSG will need to make swift decisions to solidify their pace attack and avoid setbacks in the early matches.
