Lucknow Super Giants are entering IPL 2026 with one of their most balanced teams ever, featuring explosive batting, all-round depth and serious pace attack. According to AI-based squad analysis, this is LSG’s most likely and effective playing XI as they strive for their maiden IPL title.
Pant will lead from the front
Rishabh Pant remains the heartbeat of this LSG team. As captain and wicketkeeper, Pant’s aggressive mindset sets the tone. His ability to counterattack in the middle overs makes him important, especially against spin-heavy teams.
Solid top order with Markram and Puran
Aiden Markram provides stability at the top, giving Pant the freedom to play his natural game. One of the most destructive T20 batsmen, Nicholas Pooran fits in perfectly at No. 3 or 4, putting constant pressure on the bowlers.
Strength and balance in the middle order
Mitchell Marsh adds strong power and medium pace bowling, while David Miller provides experience and finishing skills. Together, they give LSG the flexibility to rebuild or accelerate depending on match conditions.
Indian core adds stability
Ayush Badoni is stepping up as a reliable middle-order option. Shahbaz Ahmed strengthens the lower middle order and provides spin options, especially useful on slow Indian pitches.
Bowling attack: LSG’s biggest strength
The pace trio of Mohammed Shami, Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan gives LSG one of the fastest and most aggressive bowling attacks in IPL 2026. Shami’s experience, Mayank’s raw pace and Avesh’s death over skills can trouble any batting lineup.
Spin Flexibility with Hasaranga
Wanindu Hasaranga can be used as a tactical overseas pick on the turning track, with his wicket-taking ability and lower-order hitting.
AI predictions suggest that this XI offers the best balance between firepower, experience and flexibility. If the key players stay fit and Pant leads smartly, IPL 2026 could ultimately be a successful season for LSG.
IPL 2026: AI-predicted LSG playing XI
- Rishabh Pant
- aiden markram
- nicholas puran
- Michelle Marsh
- josh inglis
- Ayush Badoni
- Abdul Samad
- Shahbaz Ahmed
- Mohammed Shami
- Avesh Khan
- Mayank Yadav
Impact Player: Wanindu Hasaranga (can be used depending on the pitch and match conditions)
IPL 2026: Full squad of LSG
LSG: Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Mohammed Shami (changed), Josh Inglis, Avesh Khan, David Miller, Abdul Samad, Mohsin Khan, Ayush Badoni, Mitchell Marsh, Mukul Chaudhary, Shahbaz Ahmed, Akshat Raghuvanshi, Aiden Markram, Wanindu Hasaranga, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwary, Matthew Britzke, Arjun Tendulkar (changed), Himmat Singh, Digvesh Rathi, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav. Arshin Kulkarni
