IPL 2025: LSG eying Arshdeep Singh; Nicholas Pooran may lead the pack 

Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has urged the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to prioritise securing pacer Arshdeep Singh during the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. Arshdeep, recently released by Punjab Kings (PBKS), will be available at the auction scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah.

The left-arm fast bowler, a key figure in India’s T20I setup, has delivered impressive performances since his international debut in 2022. In 59 T20Is, he has claimed 95 wickets at an average of 18.47, making him India’s leading pacer in the format and the second-highest wicket-taker overall in this period. Additionally, he played a significant role in India’s victorious T20 World Cup campaign this year, where he emerged as the joint-highest wicket-taker with 17 scalps in eight matches at an average of 12.47.

Arshdeep has also been a consistent performer in the IPL, representing PBKS in 65 matches since his debut in 2019 and picking up 76 wickets. His best season came recently, with 19 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 26.58.

Speaking to Star Sports, Uthappa recommended that LSG use their Right-to-Match (RTM) card for Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis while strongly pursuing Arshdeep. He highlighted how the Ekana Stadium’s pitch conditions, offering bounce and movement, could complement the left-arm pacer’s bowling style.

Leadership Choices and Other Suggestions

Uthappa also weighed in on the captaincy, favouring West Indies batter Nicholas Pooran to lead the team unless an Australian player is included, in which case head coach Justin Langer might have a say in leadership decisions.

“I think Pooran will take charge unless an Australian is brought in. Then, they could collaborate with Langer on leadership,” he said.

He advised LSG against targeting wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who was released by the Mumbai Indians, suggesting the Gujarat Titans might be a better fit for the attacking left-hander due to more favourable pitch conditions. Uthappa added that Quinton de Kock and Kyle Mayers could be reliable opening options for LSG, while players like Will Jacks and Devon Conway could also be considered.

Key Details About the Auction

The highly anticipated auction will feature 574 players, including 366 Indians and 208 overseas players, with three from associate nations. Among the total pool, 318 are uncapped Indian players, and 12 are uncapped overseas players, with 204 slots available, including 70 for overseas talent.

The top reserve price is INR 2 crore, with 81 players in this bracket. Most players, however, have a base price of INR 30 lakh, a category that includes 320 cricketers. Among the 12 marquee players released by franchises before the retention deadline are prominent names such as Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, and KL Rahul. For the first time since 2018, marquee players have been divided into two sets, consisting of seven Indian and five overseas players.