IPL: 3 Changes LSG Needs to Make to Win IPL 2026

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) finished seventh in IPL 2025, with 12 points from 14 games and a net run rate of -0.376. With the quality of players in their squad, expectations were high that they would at least secure a playoff spot. However, the season turned out to be a disappointing one.

Now, with the aim of winning their maiden title, LSG must make some key changes as they prepare for a comeback in IPL 2026.

Here are the three changes LSG needs to make to win IPL 2026:

Using Rishabh Pant as a Batter, Not Skipper

LSG created headlines by signing Rishabh Pant for a record-breaking INR 27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. He was also appointed as the captain. However, things didn’t go as planned.

LSG failed to reach the playoffs, and Pant’s performance with the bat appeared to be affected by the added responsibility. While he did finish the season with a century, his overall tally was just 269 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate of 133.16.

Going forward, LSG should consider using Pant purely as a batter, allowing him to focus on his natural game. The leadership duties can be handed over to someone like Nicholas Pooran or Aiden Markram—both experienced leaders with consistent performances and captaincy credentials in international cricket and franchise leagues.

Having a Reliable Indian Spinner

LSG retained Ravi Bishnoi ahead of IPL 2025, and he has been part of the franchise since 2022. However, his form has dipped since 2024, and the 2025 season was no different. Bishnoi picked up only nine wickets in 11 games and conceded runs at an economy of 10.83.

For any captain, managing a spinner who leaks runs in the middle and death overs is extremely challenging. LSG should look to bring in more reliable Indian spin-bowling options, either to support Bishnoi or to provide healthy competition for a spot in the playing XI.

Adding a Batting All-Rounder

All-rounders play a vital role in the success of any T20 side. While LSG had the services of Shardul Thakur and Shahbaz Nadeem, both are bowling all-rounders and failed to make meaningful contributions with the bat.

LSG clearly lacked a batting all-rounder who could add depth and stability to the lineup, especially in pressure situations. Ahead of IPL 2026, they must look for an Indian or overseas option who can score quick runs down the order and chip in with a few overs if needed, thereby adding balance and flexibility to the squad.

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