LSG in Trouble? Injury Concerns and Shardul Thakur's Possible Entry Ahead of IPL 2025

LSG in Trouble? Injury Concerns and Shardul Thakur's Possible Entry Ahead of IPL 2025

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are facing a major setback ahead of IPL 2025, as multiple key pacers are either injured or awaiting fitness clearance. With the tournament set to begin soon, this could significantly impact their chances of making it to the IPL playoffs. Meanwhile, rumors are circulating that Shardul Thakur might join the squad as a replacement, especially after being seen at LSG’s training camp.

LSG’s Fast Bowling Crisis: Who’s Injured?

LSG’s fast bowling unit is in trouble, with their top pacers dealing with injuries:

Mayank Yadav – 

The young speedster, who impressed in IPL 2024, is expected to miss the first half of IPL 2025 due to a back injury.

https://x.com/LucknowIPL/status/1840301600134344979?t=KKtaRuARnSSAxbsxJRhHiA&s=19

Avesh Khan & Mohsin Khan –

 Both are still awaiting clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and could miss LSG’s first match against Delhi Capitals on March 24.

With three of their key pacers unavailable, LSG's bowling strength has taken a hit. This situation has led to speculations that the franchise could bring in an injury replacement, and the most talked-about name is Shardul Thakur.

LSG’s Current Fast Bowlers & Fast-Bowling All-Rounders (IPL 2025)

Despite the injury woes, LSG still has some fast bowlers and all-rounders in the squad:

Fast Bowlers:

Akash Deep – 

.                   Akash Deep

Right-arm fast-medium

Akash Singh – 

Left-arm fast-medium

Mohsin Khan – Left-arm fast-medium (awaiting fitness clearance)

Mayank Yadav

 – Right-arm fast (injured)

Fast-Bowling All-Rounders:

Mitchell Marsh –

.             Mitchell Marsh

 Right-arm medium, explosive batting option, However, due to recent injury, he will play as pure batter.

Rajvardhan Hangargekar – 

Young all-rounder with good pace, but not majorly experiance.

How Will This Impact LSG’s Playoff Chances?

A strong pace attack is crucial for a team’s success in the IPL, and LSG’s current situation puts them in a tough spot. Missing their best fast bowlers could:

Weaken their powerplay attack, making it difficult to take early wickets.

Put extra pressure on spinners, especially on flat batting pitches.

Affect their death bowling, an area where they needed improvement anyway.

The franchise might have to rely more on Mitchell Marsh and Rajvardhan Hangargekar to fill the gap. However, their lack of IPL experience as frontline pacers could be a concern.

Shardul Thakur to LSG – Is It Happening?

Adding fuel to the speculation, Shardul Thakur was recently seen training with LSG players and even participating in the team’s Holi celebrations. This has led to rumors that he might be signed as a replacement.

https://x.com/LucknowIPL/status/1900546910123151691?t=VUZOPR1xA6HKnHNXl6Cjqg&s=19

Thakur, who went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, had recently signed with Essex for County Cricket. However, his contract allows him to join an IPL team as an injury replacement, meaning he could ditch his County stint if LSG brings him in.

Final Thoughts: Can LSG Overcome This Challenge?

While LSG has a well-balanced squad, their fast-bowling depth is now a concern. If Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, and Mohsin Khan remain unavailable for too long, their IPL 2025 playoff hopes could take a serious hit.

If LSG officially brings in Shardul Thakur, it could provide the much-needed experience and depth in their bowling attack. But until then, fans will have to wait for an official announcement.

Stay tuned to Cricbox for more updates on IPL 2025 and LSG’s squad changes!