Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have pressed the refresh button ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction, locking in their squad strategy with a mix of bold releases, headline trades and a sizeable purse to chase
their remaining targets.
The franchise submitted its final list to the BCCI by the 15 November deadline, signalling a decisive shift in its long-term planning as the December 16 auction in Abu Dhabi draws closer. With the competition intensifying and several teams restructuring aggressively, LSG's latest moves underline a clear intention to strengthen their pace attack and deepen their middle order options.
The storyline leading into this auction has been dominated by high-profile trades across the league, and LSG were no exception. Their headline acquisition - star Indian pacer Mohammed Shami - became official on Retention Deadline Day, a move that instantly boosts their new-ball firepower. The franchise also secured left-arm quick Arjun Tendulkar from Mumbai Indians, adding depth to their pool of young Indian bowlers. With Rs. 22.95 crore left in the purse, Lucknow still have room for tactical additions as they prepare for an intensely competitive auction table.
Major Updates and What Changes for LSG
One of the most significant shake-ups comes in the bowling department. Mohammed Shami's arrival marks one of the biggest pre-auction moves, especially considering he was Sunrisers Hyderabad's second-most expensive signing for IPL 2025 at INR 10 crore. His switch to LSG, along with Arjun Tendulkar's pathway move for more playing opportunities, adds fresh dynamics to the bowling group. Meanwhile, Shardul Thakur exits the franchise, traded to Mumbai Indians in what now becomes his third all-cash IPL trade - a trivia nugget fans will remember. His earlier stints saw moves from Kings XI Punjab to Rising Pune Supergiant and then from Delhi Capitals to Kolkata Knight Riders.
Several other moves across franchises highlight the frenetic trade window - Sanju Samson's blockbuster switch to CSK, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran joining Rajasthan Royals, and Donovan Ferreira and Nitish Rana changing hands in deals involving revised fees. While not directly affecting LSG's roster building, these shifts recalibrate the auction landscape and hint at a competitive bidding war ahead.
LSG's released list also reveals a shift towards rebuilding youth balance and overseas experience. David Miller, Shamar Joseph, and Ravi Bishnoi are among the notable exits, alongside several promising Indian names including Aryan Juyal and Rajvardhan Hangargekar. The retention core, however, remains solid with a mix of established internationals and young Indian talent.
LSG Retention and Release List for IPL 2026
Retained Players
- Abdul Samad
- Ayush Badoni
- Aiden Markram
- Matthew Breetzke
- Himmat Singh
- Rishabh Pant (c)
- Nicholas Pooran
- Mitchell Marsh
- Shahbaz Ahmed
- Arshin Kulkarni
- Mayank Yadav
- Avesh Khan
- Mohsin Khan
- Manimaran Siddharth
- Digvesh Rathi
- Prince Yadav
- Akash Singh
Released Players
- Aryan Juyal
- David Miller
- Yuvraj Chaudhary
- Rajvardhan Hangargekar
- Akash Deep
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Shamar Joseph
Trades
- Traded In: Mohammed Shami (from Sunrisers Hyderabad), Arjun Tendulkar (from Mumbai Indians)
- Traded Out: Shardul Thakur (to Mumbai Indians)
Purse Remaining: Rs. 22.95 crore
All lists finalised and submitted to BCCI by the retention deadline of 15 November. The IPL 2026 mini auction will take place on 16 December in Abu Dhabi.
