The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) showed moments of brilliance during the IPL 2025 season but ultimately missed out on the playoffs, finishing seventh on the points table. The franchise got momentum in patches,
resulting in missed opportunities. As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches, LSG’s management is expected to make adjustments to strengthen the squad and address existing gaps.
The franchise has already made some changes in its coaching setup and is expected to do the same in its squad. With an approach to improving depth and flexibility, especially in the pace and lower-order departments, the Lucknow-based team is likely to prioritise specialist roles over big names. On that note, let us take a look at three players the franchise could target for trades.
Here are 3 players whom LSG might trade before IPL 2026 auction:
Shamar Joseph
West Indies pacer Shamar Joseph’s IPL stint has been affected by constant fitness issues and inconsistent availability. Having been part of two seasons, Joseph has played just one game before being sidelined due to injuries. His latest shoulder discomfort that ruled him out of the West Indies’ ODI and T20I series against Bangladesh has further raised questions over his long-term fitness.
Having already missed the India Tests earlier, Joseph has struggled to maintain continuity since the end of the CPL. For the franchise, retaining an overseas player who has not contributed on the field and continues to face injury troubles looks impractical. Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, releasing Joseph would allow the team to free up an overseas slot and auction capital.
Shardul Thakur
Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur had an impressive IPL 2025 campaign. After going unsold at the auction, he was roped in as an injury replacement and immediately made an impact with both ball and bat. He bagged six wickets in the first two matches, including a Player-of-the-Match performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad. His late-over heroics against the Mumbai Indians further grabbed eyeballs.
The stellar comeback earned him a spot in India’s Test squad for the England tour, where he featured in two matches. However, with the team management eyeing combinations ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Shardul could once again be on the trade radar.
David Miller
David Miller’s time with the LSG might be nearing its end as the franchise could trade the South African batter ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Bought for INR 7.5 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction, Miller was expected to anchor the middle order and finish games for LSG. However, his underwhelming performance with 153 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 127.49 failed to justify his price tag. His age (36 years) could also play a role in LSG’s decision.
With players like Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh consistently delivering in the top order, and domestic talents such as Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad showing promise in the middle order, Miller's survival in the franchise seems tough. By trading Miller, LSG could free up valuable purse space and bring a new overseas middle-order option.
