Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) held an intra-squad practice match ahead of IPL 2026 to assess player form and combinations. The match gave the team management useful insights into who is ready for the season and which areas still need improvement.
Several players stood out during the practice game. Himmat Singh delivered two powerful innings, Ayush Badoni played an attacking fifty, Mayank Yadav showed his pace but struggled with control, and spinner M Siddharth impressed with a tight spell.
These performances may influence LSG’s early team selection when the tournament begins.
Himmat Singh Makes a Strong Case for Selection
Delhi batter Himmat Singh was one of the standout performers in the practice match. He impressed in two different innings while representing both LSG A and LSG B teams.
For LSG A, he scored 74 runs from just 34 balls. Later in the match, playing for LSG B, he added another quick innings of 42 runs from 15 balls.
These two innings showed his ability to score quickly and adjust to different situations.
Himmat Singh’s Practice Match Performance
| Team | Runs | Balls |
|---|---|---|
| LSG A | 74 | 34 |
| LSG B | 42 | 15 |
His aggressive batting could make him a useful option for the team, especially if they need quick runs in the middle overs or a fast start during a chase.
If he continues this form, Himmat Singh may be considered for an early appearance in the IPL season or used as an Impact Sub.
Also See : Spencer Johnson to Join CSK Late in IPL 2026 After Signing as Injury Replacement
Ayush Badoni Could Get a Promotion
Ayush Badoni also had a strong outing in the practice match. He scored a half-century in just 25 balls before getting out.
The innings displayed his ability to attack bowlers and maintain a high scoring rate. Badoni’s clean hitting and timing suggested he has the range of shots needed to succeed in T20 cricket.
Ayush Badoni Practice Match Highlights
| Stat | Record |
|---|---|
| Runs | 50 |
| Balls | 25 |
| Strike rate | High attacking tempo |
Badoni has already played 56 IPL matches, and many fans are waiting to see if IPL 2026 becomes his breakthrough season.
There is also a possibility that the team management, led by captain Rishabh Pant, could consider promoting him higher in the batting order. A higher position might allow him to use his attacking style earlier in the innings.
Mayank Yadav Shows Pace but Needs Better Control
Fast bowler Mayank Yadav returned to bowling after a long break. His pace and energy were clearly visible, and he managed to pick up a couple of wickets.
However, his control was not at its best during the practice game. He conceded several runs and struggled with his line and length at times.
One over against Badoni was particularly expensive, with multiple boundaries scored.
Mayank Yadav Practice Match Performance
| Stat | Record |
|---|---|
| Wickets | 2 |
| Pace | High |
| Concern | Leaked runs |
This is not unusual for a player returning from injury. Practice matches often help bowlers regain rhythm and accuracy.
If Mayank improves his control and consistency, he could become a key fast bowler for LSG during IPL 2026.
M Siddharth Impresses with Economical Spell
Left-arm spinner M Siddharth delivered one of the most controlled bowling spells of the match.
He conceded only 32 runs and took one wicket, keeping the scoring rate under control during the middle overs.
M Siddharth Bowling Performance
| Overs | Runs | Wickets |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 32 | 1 |
Siddharth’s overall T20 career also shows strong control, with a career economy rate of around 6.41. This makes him a valuable option for slowing down scoring during crucial phases of a match.
Given that LSG’s spin department is not very deep, his performance could strengthen his chances of getting opportunities during the season.
Key Takeaways from LSG Practice Match
The intra-squad match gave the team a clearer idea about player form and possible combinations for IPL 2026.
Main Observations
| Area | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Batting form | Himmat Singh and Ayush Badoni impressed |
| Middle order options | Himmat Singh could be used as Impact Sub |
| Pace attack | Mayank Yadav needs to improve control |
| Spin department | M Siddharth showed reliability |
Conclusion
The practice match gave Lucknow Super Giants valuable information before the start of IPL 2026.
Himmat Singh’s powerful hitting, Ayush Badoni’s quick fifty, Mayank Yadav’s pace return, and M Siddharth’s controlled bowling were the major talking points.
As the team continues its preparations, these performances may influence the final playing XI and the overall strategy for the new season.
