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4 players Lucknow Super Giants might release before IPL 2023 Auctions

Lucknow Super Giants reached the Top 4 but lost to Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator. The team has a few issues to fix. They already have a balanced squad and would target to address the minor loopholes. There would be some releases by the franchise before the next auctions. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of four players Lucknow Super Giants might release before the IPL 2023 Auctions.

1) Manish Pandey

Manish Pandey was hired for the No.3 role in IPL 2022 Auctions. However, the Karnataka batter could not leave an impact. Now that Deepak Hooda can play at No.3, LSG might release Pandey.

While LSG might try to buy him back at a lower price, they would also target to unearth some new talents. The likes of Ayush Badoni did well last season. While Badoni could be given more chances in IPL 2023, LSG could also invest in someone raw based on Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2022.

2) Kyle Mayers

Kyle Mayers is one of the players Lucknow Super Giants might release before the IPL 2023 Auctions. He was a surprising pick by LSG at the auctions. However, he did not get a single game last season. With Quinton de Kock and Evin Lewis already in the squad, Kyle Mayers is likely to be released.

LSG desperately needs a solid left-handed middle-order batter. In the list of options, there are the likes of Ben Stokes and Rilee Rossouw. Both these players could go for a huge sum. Therefore, Mayers could be released to free up the overseas slots.

3) Shahbaz Nadeem

Shahbaz Nadeem was hired as the backup for Krunal Pandya last season. Since Krunal was good, Nadeem did not get a chance. Therefore, LSG might release the player as he has not been in exceptional form in domestic cricket since then.

If LSG needs a backup for Krunal, they must target a player with a similar profile as an all-rounder. Shubhang Hegde is one name that can be an option for the franchise. The youngster was terrific in the KSCA T20 Maharaja Trophy that was held recently. He might also come cheap and hence, LSG can target the cricketer.

4) Jason Holder

Jason Holder could also be one of the players Lucknow Super Giants might release before the IPL 2023 Auctions. When the West Indian was purchased for INR 8.75 Cr at the auctions last year, it was not surprising because of his form. However, he could not do greatly in IPL 2022 and since then, he has not been excellent for West Indies, too.

For the RPSG Durban Franchise in SA20 League, the owners have picked Holder. They have committed to an association with him. However, it would be a wise move to release him and try to get him back at a lower price. Also, much of it depends upon the availability of Mark Wood, as the Englishman would have a better impact with the ball than Holder. Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan are already available in the squad and LSG might not be too worried if they cannot buy back Holder at the auctions. Sam Curran may not be of the exact profile but at least as a bowling all-rounder, he could be a decent replacement choice for Holder.

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