Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are heading towards a massive reset after their disastrous IPL 2026 campaign, but not everyone is set to pay the price. The franchise is expected to make several changes before the IPL 2027 mega auction, but head coach Justin Langer and Nicholas Pooran are likely to remain part of the team's plans for next season despite a disappointing campaign.
However, the biggest talking point is the future of Rishabh Pant with the Lucknow Super Giants. After Pant decided to step down as LSG captain, it is not clear whether the Indian wicketkeeper-batter will even remain with the franchise in IPL 2027.
Rishabh Pant's future with Lucknow Super Giants uncertain
Pant was bought for a record INR 27 crore at the 2025 mega auction and was expected to lead the franchise into a new era. However, neither his batting nor his leadership delivered the results the franchise had hoped for. As LSG begins rebuilding after a forgettable season, discussions have reportedly started over whether keeping such an expensive player makes financial sense.
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As reported by Cricbuzz, Lucknow Super Giants have not taken a final call yet, but releasing Rishabh Pant before the next auction is a serious option under consideration. Interestingly, LSG is also keen on buying the left-hander back at a lower price at the auction even if he is released.
Justin Langer's position as LSG head coach safe
However, Justin Langer is expected to continue as LSG’s head coach. The Australian cricket great remains an important part of the franchise's long-term plans. Along with director of cricket Tom Moody and mentor Kane Williamson, LSG are currently assessing what changes are needed to make a strong comeback in the next season. However, Langer’s position is not under threat.
Even a Times of India journalist revealed that Justin Langer’s position as LSG head coach is safe, given his experience and what he brings to the table. He posted, X: “My source says former Australian opener Justin Langer stays as the Lucknow Super Giants head coach!”
LSG considering releasing Rishabh Pant before the IPL 2027 Mega Auction
Meanwhile, the Cricbuzz report further revealed that the Lucknow Super Giants team management is reviewing whether spending INR 27 crore on Pant is a financially good investment after he failed to meet expectations, because of which, they are planning to release him before the mega auction.
His numbers also justified their thinking. Pant scored 581 runs at an average of 26.40 and a strike rate of 135.74 across two seasons and 28 matches for Lucknow. His record as captain was equally disappointing, with only 10 wins from 28 matches, giving him a win percentage of just 35.71.
Things got even worse in IPL 2026. Lucknow finished last on the points table after managing only four wins in 14 matches. Their win percentage for this season dropped below 30 percent, making it one of the franchise's worst campaigns since their debut in 2022.
Nicholas Pooran is likely to survive the shakeup
Another player under scrutiny is Nicholas Pooran. The explosive West Indies batter was retained for INR 21 crore, and his performances this season failed to match the massive investment. Pooran managed only 234 runs, raising questions about whether he justified his price tag inside the think tank.
Together, Pant and Pooran account for nearly INR 48 crore, a huge chunk of LSG’s salary purse. However, unlike Pant, Pooran is likely to survive the expected squad shake-up. The management still believes in Pooran’s match-winning ability, especially because of his excellent IPL 2025 season, when he smashed 524 runs and was among the team's top performers.
