IPL 2025: Zaheer Khan opens up on LSG's injury woes
What's the story
As the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season nears, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are facing a major hurdle.
The team's lead pace attack is currently out of action due to several injuries.
Team mentor Zaheer Khan stressed that considering the fast-paced nature of the league, every team has to be prepared for such uncertainties.
Here are the details.
Injury update
Uncertain return for injured players
Led by captain Rishabh Pant, the LSG will start their season on March 24 at the ACAVDCA Cricket Stadium.
However, the return of key players like Mayank Yadav, Akash Deep, Mohsin Khan and Avesh Khan is still uncertain.
The biggest blow to LSG's bowling unit is Mayank, who started bowling in nets on Monday.
The pacer is recovering from a lumbar stress injury at the Center of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he has been undergoing rehab.
Uncertainties
You have to be ready for uncertainties, says Zaheer
"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," said Zaheer in a press conference.
Backup plans
LSG's potential replacement options amid injury crisis
With their bowling attack severely depleted, LSG are looking at filling the gap with backup options Shardul Thakur and Shivam Mavi.
Both players were spotted bowling at the LSG nets.
The coaching team, led by Zaheer, would have now seen enough of Thakur and Mavi to take a call on a replacement but it remains to be seen if they're willing to risk with players returning from long injury lay-offs.
Words
'Our priority is good cricket'
Zak further stated that LSG's priority is good cricket and feels they are a strong side.
"There can't be a single method for every situation. Injuries should be controlled. We are not even talking about injuries. Our priority is good cricket, we have a good captain, we have a good team. Rishabh Pant is a good player," he added.