Today, we delve into the top five most expensive buys of the Lucknow Super Giants
The IPL auction is a whirlwind of bidding wars, unexpected picks, and strategic maneuvers. For the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), their inaugural season in 2022 was all about building a strong foundation. To achieve this, they went all out for some of the hottest talents in the cricketing world, breaking the bank for several players. Today, we delve into the top 5 most expensive buys for LSG, analysing their playing styles, impact on the team, and performances.
Credit: @Ipl_scoop
Nicy P is one of the cleanest hitters of the cricket ball
Nicholas Pooran's acquisition by LSG in 2023 for a whopping INR 16 crore sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity. The former West Indies captain, known for his explosive batting and fearless approach, had a decent season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2022 (306 runs at an average of 38.25 and a strike rate of 144.54). However, his performances hadn't quite justified such a high price tag.
Pooran's role at LSG was clear: to be the finisher, the player who could take the game away from the opposition in the slog overs. Nicy P has scored 1561 runs in 71 matches with a strike rate of 158.3 in his entire IPL career.
Credit: @CricCrazyJohns
Captain is leading from the front
The skipper himself, KL Rahul, wasn't far behind Pooran in terms of price. LSG secured his services for INR 15 crore, and he more than lived up to the expectations. Leading the team from the front, Rahul emerged as the second-highest run scorer in the entire IPL 2023 season, only behind Jos Buttler. His tally of 616 runs in 15 innings, with a phenomenal average of 51.33, included two centuries and four half-centuries. Rahul's elegant strokeplay and astute captaincy were crucial factors in LSG's successful debut season.
Credit: @LucknowIPL
He is in good touch in the ongoing IPL season
The ever-reliable Marcus Stoinis was another key acquisition for LSG, snapped up for INR 11 crore. The Australian all-rounder offers a perfect blend of power-hitting with the bat and sharp-paced bowling. While injuries restricted his playing time in the IPL (91 games), he showcased his all-around prowess, scoring 1732 runs at a strike rate of 142.7 and picking up 42 wickets. Recently, his innings of 124* off just 63 deliveries against CSK became the highest individual score in a successful IPL chase.
Credit: @CricXtasy
Aves Khan celebrating Jos Butler’s wicket
Avesh Khan, the young Indian pacer, caught everyone's attention with his impressive performance for the Delhi Capitals in 2021. LSG recognised his potential and invested INR 10 crore to bring him on board. In the IPL,, Khan displayed his wicket-taking spree, claiming 64 scalps in 56 innings at an impressive average of 27.8. His ability to swing the new ball and bowl accurate yorkers makes him a valuable asset in the bowling attack.
Credit: @_ujjW4L_
Krunal has a top economy rate since 2022
LSG's focus on all-rounders extended to Krunal Pandya, acquired for INR 8.25 crore. The left-arm spinner and handy lower-middle-order batsman provide valuable depth to the team's composition. In the IPL, Pandya displayed his all-around abilities, chipping in with 75 wickets at a decent economy rate of 7.32 and scoring 1587 runs with a strike rate of over 133.7. With his experience and ability to contribute in various facets of the game, Pandya is a vital cog in LSG's cricket machinery.
