The uncertainty around the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad has finally settled with the franchise unveiling its 2026 LSG retention list ahead of next month’s IPL mini-auction. After a season that fell well below expectations, the Lucknow Franchise have chosen stability over overhaul by retaining a large core of their squad while letting go of a handful of notable names like David Miller and Ravi Bishnoi. On the back of having a new captain in Rishabh Pant at the helm and players like Arjun Tendulkar Traded in the franchise appears to be signalling a fresh strategic direction for the upcoming 2026 IPL season.

LSG Retention for IPL 2026

2026 LSG retained players list of 19 players displays the franchise’s interest in retaining their core group, irrespective of their unfruitful 2026 campaign. The leadership switch to Rishabh Pant adds a refreshing dynamic, while the presence of Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram, and Mitchell Marsh offers strong overseas balance.

Your returning Super Giants 🩵 pic.twitter.com/uAGmG14kjj

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) November 15, 2025

They’ve also shown significant faith in their bowling unit by keeping Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, and the newly traded-in Mohammed Shami. However, some choices raise eyebrows, especially the release of Ravi Bishnoi and David Miller, two proven T20 match-winners. At the same time, the retention of certain uncapped players signals that LSG are prioritising continuity and long-term potential over immediate star value.

2026 LSG Retained Players List: Rishabh Pant, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Aiden Markram (Overseas), Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke (Overseas), Nicholas Pooran (Overseas), Mitchell Marsh (Overseas), Shahbaz Ahamad, Arshin Kulkarni, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Rathi, Prince Yadav, Akash Singh, Arjun Tendulkar (trade-in), Mohammed Shami (trade-in)

2026 LSG Released Players List: Shardul Thakur (trade-out), David Miller (Overseas), Aryan Juyal, Yuvraj Chaudhary, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Akash Deep, Ravi Bishnoi.

Surprising Release from LSG

The most shocking release from LSG is undoubtedly star leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi. As one of the most consistent Indian spinners in recent IPL seasons, Bishnoi’s ability to control the middle overs and pick crucial wickets made him a central figure in LSG’s bowling plans. His departure leaves a noticeable gap, especially given that the team did not retain any frontline leg-spinners.

Lucknow kabhi nahi bhoolega aapko 💙 pic.twitter.com/ZO0WvzWPAW

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) November 15, 2025

This move suggests LSG might be preparing for a tactical shift or hoping to buy him back at the auction, though that plan carries massive risk. Regardless, Bishnoi’s exit is likely to be the most debated thing coming out of the 2026 LSG retention list.

Surprising Names Among the 2026 LSG Retained Players

Matthew Breetzke

The South African keeper-batter being retained is interesting, given he had limited opportunities to showcase his talent last season. While Breetzke is known for his hitting range and technique, his IPL impact remains untested. LSG’s decision to keep him despite having Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran suggests they value left-field match-up options and batting flexibility.

Arjun Tendulkar

Arjun Tendulkar’s inclusion, following a trade from the Mumbai Indians, adds another layer to LSG’s retention strategy. Though still developing as a pacer, Arjun offers left-arm variation and batting depth at No. 8 or No. 9. Trading him signals LSG’s desire to build a project bowler who can grow into a reliable role with consistent opportunities.

Digvesh Rathi

The domestic player earned another year with the franchise despite the fact that the LSG had Ravi Bishnoi in the squad from the last few seasons as their frontline spin options, the inclusion of Digvesh Rathi in the 2026 LSG retention list indicates their faith in the youngster’s talent.

3 Players LSG Should Target in the IPL 2026 Auction

After the announcement of the retention list for the 2026 IPL Season, the Lucknow Super Giants head into the 2026 mini-auction with a purse of ₹22.95 crore. LSG is expected to be active bidders, especially for a frontline spinner, middle-order reinforcement, and a reliable Indian all-rounder.

#1 Gerald Coetzee (Fast Bowler)

With Shami being traded, Coetzee, alongside the likes of Avesh Khan and Mayank Yadav, is likely to form the core pace trio or LSG. The Franchise still needs a dynamic overseas quick bowler capable of generating bounce and reverse swing. Gerald Coetzee brings raw pace, wicket-taking potential, and a fiery competitive streak, qualities that complement LSG’s bowling group perfectly. His energy could be pivotal in tight moments.

#2 Andre Russell (All-Round Enforcer)

LSG’s biggest weakness last season was the lack of a true finisher who could close games with authority. Andre Russell, with his power hitting in the death overs and his X-factor with his medium-paced bowling, brings pedigree and experience to the shortest format of the game. Even in the fag end of his career, Russell remains one of the most destructive hitters in world cricket with the capability of turning the game around in a matter of a few balls. Russell’s ability to bowl short, sharp spells also gives LSG much-needed depth. On big grounds like Lucknow, Russell’s power allows him to clear the ropes with ease, making him a priceless late-overs weapon. If he’s in the 2026 auction pool, LSG should strongly pursue him.

#3 Rahul Chahar (Specialist Wrist-Spinner)

After the release of Ravi Bishnoi, the Lucknow Super Giants will look to acquire an Indian wrist spinner as a backup for Digvesh Rathi, who can take wickets when batsmen try to dominate in the second phase of the game. Rahul Chahar could be a perfect fit for them to buy in the 2026 IPL auction.

New chapter, same Captain Pant 🫡💙 pic.twitter.com/v4GSV1KNv4

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) November 15, 2025

Conclusion

Lucknow Super Giants now enter the 2026 mini auction with clarity about the areas that they need to improve. They have provided stability with the choices of their retention, but there are still gaps that need to be taken care of.