Could LSG Secure Livingstone for the Finisher Position in IPL Auction?
Synopsis
As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, Lucknow Super Giants are eyeing England's Liam Livingstone as a potential finisher to replace David Miller. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif shares insights on LSG's strategy, highlighting their needs for both pace and spin bowling options. Catch the live action on December 16!
Key Takeaways
LSG may target Liam Livingstone to fill the finisher's role.
The team enters the auction with a budget of Rs 22.95 crore.
Mohammad Kaif highlights the need for overseas fast bowlers.
Ravi Bishnoi's release creates a need for spin options.
The IPL 2026 auction is on December 16.
New Delhi, Dec 16 (NationPress) The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) may target England’s all-rounder Liam Livingstone at the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, as suggested by former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif. This move aims to enhance their lower-order batting strength. The auction is scheduled to take place in the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, where LSG has a budget of Rs 22.95 crore to fill six positions, including four for international players.
Following the release of David Miller, LSG will be looking for a suitable replacement. Kaif highlighted Livingstone as an ideal candidate, noting his experience and high strike rate, which could make him a valuable finisher at number five or six. "With Miller's exit, Livingstone stands out as a direct alternative," Kaif remarked during an exclusive interview with IANS ahead of the mini auction.
LSG enters the auction with a strong Indian pace attack, including seasoned bowler Mohammed Shami and promising young talent Arjun Tendulkar, providing depth and coverage for pacers Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, and Mayank Yadav, who are recovering from injuries.
Kaif suggested that LSG could also consider South African pacers Anrich Nortje or Lungi Ngidi to enhance their overseas fast bowling options. He expressed hope for the recovery of Avesh and Mayank while emphasizing the need for overseas speedsters. "Nortje might suit LSG's large ground conditions well, offering good bounce and pace," he added.
As for spin, the team currently has only Digvesh Rathi as their wrist-spinner, creating a gap following the release of Ravi Bishnoi. To strengthen their spin department, LSG needs to sign an experienced player who can complement Rathi and diversify their middle-over bowling strategy.
Kaif advised that LSG might need to explore uncapped spin options due to potential bids for Bishnoi exceeding their budget. "Many teams may pursue Bishnoi, making it challenging for Lucknow to retain him due to budget constraints," he explained. "Rathi has become the main leg spinner, and with skipper Rishabh Pant's trust in him, finding a suitable partner is essential. LSG should focus on affordable uncapped spinners to fill the gap at the auction.
Catch all the action from the TATA IPL 2026 mini-auction on December 16, starting at 2:30 PM, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.
Point of View
The IPL auction serves as a pivotal moment for franchises like LSG to strategically enhance their squads. The insights from experts like Mohammad Kaif underline the focus on balancing both batting and bowling departments to compete effectively in the league. As the auction approaches, fans and analysts eagerly await LSG's moves in an increasingly competitive environment.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is LSG targeting Liam Livingstone?
LSG is looking to strengthen their lower-order batting after releasing David Miller, and Livingstone's experience and role as a finisher make him a suitable candidate.
What is LSG's budget for the IPL 2026 auction?
LSG has a budget of Rs 22.95 crore to fill six slots during the IPL 2026 auction.
Who are the other players LSG might consider for fast bowling?
Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif mentioned South African pacers Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi as potential targets for LSG.
How does LSG plan to address their spin bowling needs?
Following the release of Ravi Bishnoi, LSG is expected to look for experienced spinners or uncapped options to support their current roster.
When and where will the IPL 2026 auction take place?
The IPL 2026 auction is scheduled for December 16 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
