IPL 2026: 3 LSG Players Who Could Be Traded Before the IPL Auction

During the IPL 2025 season, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) displayed occasional moments of brilliance, but were unable to make the playoffs, concluding the season 7th on the points table. As the franchise gained momentum in patches, it resulted in missed opportunities for itself. The approaching IPL 2026 mini auction is a time in which LSG management would be expected to make adjustments to strengthen the squad and address existing gaps.

The franchise has already made some changes in its coaching setup and is expected to do the same in its squad. With an approach to improving depth and flexibility, especially in the pace and lower-order departments, the Lucknow-based team is likely to prioritise specialist roles over big names. On that note, let us take a look at three players the franchise could target for trades.

Shardul Thakur

Shardul Thakur had a great season in IPL 2025. He was not sold in the auction, but made the team because of an injury, and he contributed right away. He had 6 wickets in his first two matches, including a Player of the Match performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He also made headlines with his batting against Mumbai Indians towards the end of the innings.

The stellar comeback earned him a spot in India’s Test squad for the England tour, where he featured in two matches. However, with the team management eyeing combinations ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Shardul could once again be on the trade radar. 

David Miller

David Miller might leave the Lucknow Super Giants, as the team could trade him before the IPL 2026 auction. LSG bought him for ₹7.5 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, expecting him to strengthen the middle order and finish matches. But he scored only 153 runs in 11 matches with a strike rate of 127.49, which was below expectations. His age (36) could also affect LSG’s decision.

With players like Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh regularly delivering in the top order and local talents such as Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad putting plenty of promise in the middle order, it seems difficult for Miller to remain in the franchise. Their trade would also potentially allow for freed purse space to attract a different overseas middle-order option. By trading Miller, LSG could free up valuable purse space and bring a new overseas middle-order option.

Shamar Joseph

West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph’s IPL career has been hit by frequent injuries and fitness problems. In two seasons, he has played only one match before getting injured again. His recent shoulder injury, which kept him out of the series against Bangladesh, has raised more doubts about his fitness.

Having already missed the India Tests earlier, Joseph has struggled to maintain continuity since the end of the CPL. For the franchise, retaining an overseas player who has not contributed on the field and continues to face injury troubles looks impractical. Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, releasing Joseph would allow the team to free up an overseas slot and auction capital.