New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) The head coach of Lucknow Super Giants, Justin Langer, is anticipated to prioritize recruiting Aussie talent during the forthcoming IPL auction, as stated by former India selector Saba Karim.

The LSG team will participate in the IPL 2026 auction scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, equipped with a budget of Rs 22.95 crore to fill six positions, including four for foreign players. Karim remarked, “Justin Langer and LSG will likely focus on Australian players during the auction. They must be assertive and seek players like Cameron Green and Aaron Hardie.”

“Both are versatile all-rounders capable of both batting and bowling. The Australian players bring a winning mindset that LSG aspires to incorporate. They also signed Mohammed Shami to strengthen their bowling lineup. I believe the bowling coach, Bharat Arun, is confident Shami can still perform at a high level,” he added.

“They needed a leader for the bowling attack, especially since the other fast bowlers like Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan are Indian. Bharat Arun feels Shami can mentor these young bowlers,” said Karim during his appearance on JioStar.

Prior to the auctions, LSG actively pursued pacers Mohammed Shami and Arjun Tendulkar through trades. Langer expressed satisfaction in acquiring a seasoned bowler like Shami, whom he considers one of the most positive figures in the cricket world.

“Mohammed Shami is a fierce competitor and a true warrior. His presence on the field assures the team is in contention. Keeping him fit is crucial, as I prefer to have more fast bowlers than fewer,” Langer noted.

“When discussing challenges, there is no better teammate than him. He is arguably one of the finest team players I've encountered in cricket. His energy is remarkable. I anticipated his selection in the upcoming auction due to his immense value. Fortunately, we secured him in a trade, and I am excited to collaborate with him,” Langer added.

Former Punjab Kings head coach Anil Kumble suggested that the team should consider additional Indian fast bowlers and an overseas keeper-batter in the upcoming auction. “Punjab Kings have a solid foundation. They were finalists last season, which boosts their confidence to retain most of their players,” Kumble stated.

“Their Indian players performed exceptionally last season, and they'll aim for that to continue. Fast bowlers are essential as backups, which remains a focus area. They might be eyeing a few promising uncapped Indian players as well. Additionally, they need to fill an overseas spot, particularly looking for a wicketkeeper-batter to replace Josh Inglis,” Kumble concluded.