Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have officially submitted their retention list for the IPL 2026 auction, setting the stage for a crucial rebuild. After a frustrating fifth-place finish in IPL 2025, the franchise is clearly aiming for a more consistent and playoff-bound campaign. The big question on everyone’s mind was about young speedster Mayank Yadav, and LSG has given their answer. Let’s dive deep into the LSG IPL 2026 retentions, the surprising releases, and what this all means for their title aspirations.
In a move that signals long-term planning, LSG has built their retained squad around the newly-appointed captain, Rishabh Pant. The franchise has shown immense faith in its young Indian core, a strategy that aligns with the BCCI’s vision for the league.
Their retained list includes a mix of exciting talent and proven performers:
Notably, LSG also traded for the experienced pacer Mohammed Shami, who will be a key addition to their bowling unit . This core provides a solid balance of power-hitting, spin, and a formidable pace attack, assuming Mayank Yadav returns to full fitness. For more on the other franchises’ moves, check out our deep dive on the [INTERNAL_LINK:ipl-2026-retentions].
The retention list is just one side of the coin. The releases often tell a more dramatic story, and LSG’s list is full of them. The most notable exit is veteran South African all-rounder David Miller, who has been a fan favorite for his match-winning abilities . His release, likely for financial reasons, creates a significant gap in their middle order.
Other significant departures from the Lucknow Super Giants released players list include:
Letting go of a talented spinner like Bishnoi is a particularly bold call, indicating LSG’s confidence in their current spin stocks like Aiden Markram and M Siddharth. These releases have freed up a considerable portion of their INR 22.95 crore purse for the upcoming auction .
The biggest storyline surrounding the LSG IPL 2026 retentions was the future of Mayank Yadav. The young pacer, known for his 150+ kph deliveries, has been plagued by recurring back injuries, which ruled him out for the entire IPL 2025 season . Many speculated that LSG might cut their losses.
However, in a show of immense faith in his raw talent, LSG has retained him. Recent reports suggest he has undergone successful back surgery and is on track to be fully fit for the 2026 season . This decision is a high-risk, high-reward strategy. If Mayank returns in his prime form, he and Avesh Khan could form one of the most terrifying new-ball pairs in the league. If not, it’s a significant financial and strategic misstep.
With their core in place and several key positions to fill, LSG will enter the IPL 2026 auction with a clear strategy. Their main priorities will likely be:
Given that there is no cap on the number of players a franchise can retain for the 2026 mini-auction, LSG’s decision to release so many players shows a deliberate attempt to refresh their squad and inject new energy . They have the financial muscle and the strategic clarity to be one of the most active bidders.
Lucknow Super Giants have sent a clear message with their LSG IPL 2026 retentions: they are all-in on their young Indian core, led by Rishabh Pant. The retention of Mayank Yadav is a masterstroke of faith, while the release of big names like David Miller and Ravi Bishnoi shows they are unafraid to make tough calls for long-term gain. Their strategy is bold and focused. If their gamble on Mayank pays off and they can find the right pieces at the auction, a playoff spot—and maybe even more—looks very much within their reach in 2026.
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