Lucknow Super Giants are preparing for IPL 2026 with a balanced squad. One of the biggest talking points this season is the arrival of fast bowler Mohammed Shami. His experience could strengthen the bowling attack as captain Rishabh Pant leads the side.
The team also has a strong batting lineup with several overseas stars and talented Indian players. Here is a simple look at the possible Lucknow Super Giants playing XI for IPL 2026.
Strong Top Order with Markram, Marsh and Pooran
LSG’s batting is expected to start with a powerful overseas trio. Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh can open the innings, while Nicholas Pooran could bat at number three.
These three players provide aggressive batting at the top and can quickly change the momentum of the match.
Rishabh Pant will lead the team and bat in the middle order. After a challenging first season with LSG, Pant will look to deliver strong performances in IPL 2026.
Indian Finishers Add Depth
LSG also have promising Indian players who can finish the innings in the lower middle order.
Ayush Badoni is likely to be one of the key finishers after performing well in previous seasons. Abdul Samad is another attacking batter who can score quick runs at the end of the innings.
Young players like Mukul Choudhary and Akshat Raghuwanshi could also get chances during the season depending on team combinations.
All-Round Options in the Middle Overs
Wanindu Hasaranga can play an important role as a bowling all-rounder. He provides a reliable spin option during the middle overs and can also contribute with the bat.
If Hasaranga misses early matches, Shahbaz Ahmed could take his place as a spin all-rounder. Shahbaz has performed well in domestic cricket and adds flexibility to the lineup.
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Shami to Lead the Pace Attack
Mohammed Shami is expected to lead the pace bowling unit for Lucknow Super Giants.
Although his IPL numbers last season were average, his experience and ability with the new ball make him a valuable player.
The team also has exciting fast bowlers like Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan. Mohsin, a left-arm pacer, can provide variation with his yorkers.
Young pacers such as Prince Yadav and Naman Tiwari could be used as backup options during the season.
Predicted LSG Playing XI for IPL 2026
| No. | Player | Backup Option |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aiden Markram | Arshin Kulkarni |
| 2 | Mitchell Marsh | Matthew Breetzke |
| 3 | Nicholas Pooran | Josh Inglis |
| 4 | Rishabh Pant (C) (WK) | — |
| 5 | Abdul Samad | Himmat Singh |
| 6 | Mukul Choudhary / Akshat Raghuwanshi | — |
| 7 | Wanindu Hasaranga | — |
| 8 | Shahbaz Ahmed | M. Siddharth |
| 9 | Mayank Yadav | Prince Yadav / Naman Tiwari |
| 10 | Mohsin Khan | Akash Singh / Arjun Tendulkar |
| 11 | Mohammed Shami | Avesh Khan / Anrich Nortje |
Impact Substitute: Digvesh Singh Rathi
LSG Squad for IPL 2026
The Lucknow Super Giants squad includes a mix of international stars and young Indian talent.
| Players |
|---|
| Rishabh Pant (Captain) |
| Aiden Markram |
| Nicholas Pooran |
| Mitchell Marsh |
| Josh Inglis |
| Matthew Breetzke |
| Abdul Samad |
| Ayush Badoni |
| Himmat Singh |
| Mukul Choudhary |
| Akshat Raghuwanshi |
| Arshin Kulkarni |
| Wanindu Hasaranga |
| Shahbaz Ahmed |
| Mohammed Shami |
| Avesh Khan |
| Mayank Yadav |
| Mohsin Khan |
| Akash Singh |
| Prince Yadav |
| Naman Tiwari |
| Arjun Tendulkar |
| Anrich Nortje |
| M. Siddharth |
| Digvesh Singh |
Lucknow Super Giants appear to have a balanced team for IPL 2026 with a mix of power hitters, all-rounders and fast bowlers. The addition of Mohammed Shami could improve their bowling strength, while Rishabh Pant will aim to lead the side to a strong campaign this season.
