Zaheer Khan sees LSG’s left-handed batting depth as a “tactical edge”

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) team mentor Zaheer Khan believes the surplus of left-handed batters in the squad could serve as a “tactical edge” rather than a limitation as the franchise prepares for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. With high-profile signings from last year’s mega auction, the team boasts a strong lineup of southpaw batters, offering unique options for their batting strategy.

LSG’s roster includes five left-handed batters, with three expected to form the core of the middle order: newly appointed captain Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, and David Miller. While this left-handed dominance might raise concerns about the lineup’s predictability, Zaheer dismissed such apprehensions, emphasizing the importance of balance and squad depth.

“It can be a tactical edge. That’s how we are looking at it,” Zaheer said. “As long as you have the balance, options in the squad, and your bases covered, it’s fine. When I look at our team, it looks like a solid unit,” he added, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

LSG recently announced Rishabh Pant as their captain, succeeding KL Rahul. Zaheer, who has previously worked with Pant during his early days at Delhi Daredevils in 2016, expressed confidence in Pant’s ability to lead the team.

“Rishabh is someone who can drive the whole unit and establish the brand of cricket that LSG wants to play. It’s about creating the right environment, setting the pillars of success, and starting the season on a strong note. Rishabh’s leadership will ensure we deliver on the kind of cricket we aim to play,” Zaheer said.

The much-anticipated IPL 2025 season will kick off on March 21 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and conclude on May 25. LSG’s announcement of Pant as captain makes them the second franchise to unveil a new leader for the season, following Punjab Kings’ appointment of Shreyas Iyer.