The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have kept their fans guessing about their captain for IPL 2025. Even after multiple interviews, the team’s owner, Sanjeev Goenka, has stayed tight-lipped. He simply said an announcement would be made “soon.”
In a recent conversation, Goenka hinted that the team has four strong leaders to consider: Rishabh Pant (purchased for ₹27 crore), Aiden Markram (₹2 crore), Mitchell Marsh (₹3.4 crore), and Nicholas Pooran (retained for ₹21 crore).
“We have four leaders—Rishabh, Pooran, Markram, and Mitch Marsh,” Goenka shared. “This gives us a smart group to plan strategies and aim for wins. Each of them has hunger and passion for victory.”
But among these names, the real competition seems to be between Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran. Here’s a look at their strengths and challenges.
Who Will Be LSG’s Captain For IPL 2025
Rishabh Pant

“I saw a clip where Rishabh slowed down the game to break the opponent’s momentum. It was smart and bold. That stuck with me,” Goenka said.
Pant’s resilience is another highlight. After surviving a life-threatening car accident, he worked hard to return to the game, even performing better than before. At 27, he is young and could potentially lead LSG for years to come.
As a captain, Pant is known for his sharp cricketing mind. He uses unusual tactics that can catch opponents off guard. He has already shown his skills during his time with the Delhi Capitals, taking them to the top of the table in IPL 2021.

However, there are questions about his ability to handle high-pressure games as a captain. He is yet to prove himself in big matches. Additionally, his T20 batting form hasn’t been at its peak, as bowlers have found ways to exploit his weaknesses.
Nicholas Pooran

Nicholas Pooran offers a different set of advantages. While Rishabh Pant is an Indian cricket superstar, Pooran has quietly built an impressive resume. He has won several titles worldwide, including the Major League Cricket and Abu Dhabi T10 as captain.
Pooran is also in incredible form. In 2024, he was the best T20 batter globally, scoring over 2300 runs at a strike rate of 158.54. His ability to perform consistently while leading his team is a big plus.
Pooran’s leadership experience also comes with a story of resilience. Like Pant, he bounced back from a serious car accident in 2019 and became one of the world’s best players.

Another advantage is Pooran’s familiarity with LSG. He captained the team in a few matches last season and already knows the players and coaching staff.
However, being a foreign captain can be tricky in the IPL. Teams have limited spots for overseas players, and captaining adds extra responsibility.
Who Will It Be?
The decision for LSG isn’t easy. Pant has star power and long-term potential, while Pooran brings form and experience. The franchise must weigh its options carefully before choosing who will lead them in IPL 2025.
No matter who takes the reins, LSG seems to have a solid team ready for the challenge. Fans will eagerly await the announcement as the IPL season approaches.
Also Read: Top 5 Iconic Indian Cricket Jerseys Of The 21st Century