Shardul Thakur Joins Injury-Hit LSG for IPL 2025

Lucknow Super Giants have brought in Shardul Thakur for a base price of ₹2 crore after injuries took a toll on their fast bowling unit. Thakur will replace Mohsin Khan, who has been dealing with a calf injury and was deemed only 50% fit by the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.

The experienced pacer had a strong domestic season but surprisingly went unsold in the IPL mega-auction. However, with multiple LSG fast bowlers – Mayank Yadav, Akash Deep, Mohsin Khan, and Avesh Khan – recovering from injuries, the team called him in for training as a precaution. While Shivam Mavi was also seen practicing with the squad, LSG has yet to officially sign him. 

The decision to rope in Thakur was made quickly after the BCCI informed LSG about Mohsin’s condition. The management didn’t want to take risks and opted for a replacement rather than waiting for Mohsin’s full recovery. Since Thakur had already been training with the team, he is well-settled and is expected to share the new ball with Shamar Joseph. 

Meanwhile, LSG has been keeping a close eye on their other injured fast bowlers. The COE has informed the franchise that Mayank Yadav should be fit by April 15, while Akash Deep and Avesh Khan are set to miss the first three matches. Interestingly, speculation about Thakur’s signing started when he appeared in LSG’s Holi celebration videos and was even spotted in the team’s training jersey. The buzz grew when an LSG social media post featuring him was mysteriously deleted within hours. 

When asked about the growing injury concerns, LSG mentor Zaheer Khan acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic. "We can’t really say much as our players are currently with the NCA. We are working alongside them to see how things move forward. The situation is dynamic and when you’re talking about the IPL, you have to be ready for uncertainties to occur. We plan for the season accordingly with 24 players, we have to field the playing XI that upholds the brand of cricket we want and win. This is a positive unit and you will get to see a positive approach,” Zaheer said. With Thakur now officially part of the squad, LSG will be hoping he steps up and delivers as they look to navigate through their early injury setbacks. 

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