The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are dealing with a growing crisis as injuries have struck their bowling lineup ahead of the IPL 2025 season. Mohsin Khan, one of their key players, has been sidelined due to a significant ACL injury he picked up during the Vijay Hazare Trophy on December 31, 2023. This unfortunate injury means Mohsin will miss the entire IPL season, compelling the team to seek replacements.
In response, LSG has signed Shardul Thakur as a replacement. Thakur, a seasoned IPL campaigner who has previously represented teams like CSK, DC, PBKS, KKR, and Rising Pune Supergiants, comes with a wealth of experience. In 95 IPL matches, he has bagged 94 wickets with an economy rate of 8.89, showcasing his prowess. His inclusion from the Registered Available Player Pool comes at a base price of ₹2 crore, marking him as a critical asset in LSG's lineup.
However, it's not just Mohsin Khan that's causing concern. LSG is facing a blow with three other crucial Indian fast bowlers unavailable due to injuries. Mayank Yadav is nursing a lower back stress injury, while Avesh Khan grapples with knee problems, and Akash Deep is also dealing with a lower back issue. All three players are currently in rehab at the BCCI's Center of Excellence in Bangalore, underscoring the severity of LSG's current predicament.
Shardul Thakur managed to turn heads with his impressive performance in the domestic season for Mumbai following foot surgery in 2022. Although he had initially planned to take his talents to Essex for county cricket, the opportunity to play in IPL with LSG took precedence. His decision highlights the prestige and competitive edge of the IPL, attracting top players worldwide.
The integration of Thakur into the team is crucial as LSG prepares for their season opener against Delhi Capitals on March 24 in Visakhapatnam. Mohsin's absence is indeed a significant gap, considering his full participation in the 2024 season after recovering from a severe shoulder injury in 2022. Yet, the team is optimistic with Thakur and Shivam Mavi having trained extensively with the main squad during the LSG camp. Both initially went unsold in the auction, but now find themselves instrumental in fortifying the team's bowling attack.
