LSG Strengthens Bowling, Batting Concerns Remain

“LSG has kept Rishabh Pant at number three, but the batting order remains a question mark. Pant can play higher, and last season’s top order was exceptional—three of the top four batsmen scored over 500 runs, which is very rare. The real issue has been the lower order; at five, six, and seven, players like David Miller couldn’t consistently deliver in last season.”

“This season, LSG have more options in bowling with (Wanindu) Hasaranga, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, along with Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, and Arjun Tendulkar. Despite these improvements, the lower-order batting remains a concern that hasn’t been fully addressed”

“Looking at Anrich Nortje and Hasaranga, LSG has very strong options, especially in the fast-bowling department, which was much needed. If the fast bowlers stay fit, they form a formidable unit.”

“Hasaranga is a big benefit – last year, there was a lack of trust from captain Rishabh Pant in Ravi Bishnoi. Hasaranga, bought for 2 crore, is a solid and cost-effective addition.”

“Gujarat Giants are strong with Beth Mooney at the top, who scored heavily, and Ash Gardner excelled as captain at number four last year. They just needed the right combination with Sophie Devine, providing flexibility.”

“Plenty of bowling options and experience with Renuka Singh Thakur taking the new ball. They stayed quiet for 70% of the auction, waited patiently, then secured key players – resulting in a well-balanced squad.”

“Initially, they seemed clueless about the auction, but they gathered momentum and secured strong buys toward the end.”

“Their pace bowling looks solid with Indian talents Kashvee Gautam, Titas Sadhu, and Renuka Singh, who brings valuable experience. The top and middle order boast depth with Sophie Devine, Beth Mooney, and Ash Gardner, while the spin attack appears robust too—making this a very solid side overall.”

“If you look at the batting order for LSG, they’re very similar to SRH. Buying Josh, even if he was available for the full season at that price, doesn’t make sense because he’s not going to be in the starting line-up”