Lucknow Super Giants step into the IPL 2026 mini auction their core squad retained, although they have released some key players like David Miller, Shardul Thakur and Ravi Bishnoi.
With a moderate purse available and several gaps to address, LSG's strategy for the upcoming auction will be closely watched.
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LSG auction purse and squad gaps for IPL 2026
According to recent retention and trade updates, LSG will enter the mini auction with INR 22.95 crore in their purse. They also have six slots open, including four overseas positions.
The releases of Aryan Juyal, David Miller, Yuvraj Chaudhary, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Akash Deep, Will O’Rourke, Ravi Bishnoi, Shamar Joseph, and Shardul Thakur have left four major gaps, a middle-order batter, an overseas fast bowler and an Indian spinner and an overseas all-rounder option.
More: LSG retention list for IPL 2026 auction
Potential middle-order targets for LSG
LSG have released hard-hitting star batter David Miller this year, which has left a hole in their middle-order. With KKR releasing Venkatesh Iyer ahead of the mini auction, LSG could consider signing the experienced campaigner to replace their South African star in the squad.
They could also go after journeyman Glenn Maxwell, who has left Punjab Kings this year.
Overseas all-rounder options for LSG
It is true that LSG have Mitchell Marsh in their squad, who is widely considered as one of the best all-rounders in the world, but the franchise could look into more overseas all-round options, with players like Andre Russell and Cameron Green in the free agent market.
Fast and spin bowlers LSG may target
With the release of Akash Deep, Shamar Joseph and Shardul Thakur, LSG will look into quality fast bowling options. They have signed experienced India international Mohammed Shami from Sunrisers Hyderabad and Arjun Tendulkar from Mumbai Indians.
One quality overseas option to strengthen their bowling could be Sri Lanka international Matheesha Pathirana, who was released by Chennai Super Kings this year.
Also, with Ravi Bishnoi's departure, the franchise could consider signing Rahul Chahar, who might prove to be a like-for-like replacement of Bishnoi.