IPL 2025 Auction: From Marcus Stoinis to Quinton de Kock, Who Could Lucknow Super Giants Retain Using RTM?

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IPL 2025 Auction: The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) enter the upcoming mega auction with ₹69 crore in their purse and a single Right-To-Match (RTM) card. The franchise has retained five players, including Nicholas Pooran and Ravi Bishnoi, but released their former captain KL Rahul.

The RTM option, applicable only for capped players, gives LSG a chance to reclaim a key figure from their 2024 roster. Several names stand out as potential targets, including Marcus Stoinis, Quinton de Kock, Krunal Pandya, and Naveen-ul-Haq.

Marcus Stoinis: The Franchise Centurion

Marcus Stoinis, LSG’s second-highest run-scorer and sole IPL centurion in 2024, is a frontrunner for the RTM card. Known for his explosive batting and ability to deliver in crunch situations, the Australian all-rounder has been integral to LSG since IPL 2022.

While Stoinis will undoubtedly attract fierce bidding, his all-round abilities make him a priority. Retaining him via RTM would ensure LSG retains a proven match-winner without jeopardising their auction budget.

Quinton de Kock: Dependable but Under Pressure

Quinton de Kock’s form dipped in IPL 2024, with just 250 runs in 11 games. However, his recent Caribbean Premier League exploits – finishing second in the run charts – highlight his enduring quality.

The South African wicketkeeper-batter has amassed over 900 runs for LSG in three seasons, and his experience at the top order is invaluable. While LSG could bid for him outright, the RTM card offers an opportunity to secure de Kock without inflating his price.

Naveen-ul-Haq: A Rising Death-Bowling Specialist

Naveen-ul-Haq led LSG’s wicket charts in IPL 2024, scalping 14 wickets in 10 innings with an impressive economy rate. The Afghan pacer’s death-bowling expertise complements LSG’s strategy, making him a strong RTM candidate.

As a capped player likely to attract attention at the auction, Naveen represents a cost-effective option to strengthen LSG’s bowling unit.

Krunal Pandya: Versatile All-Rounder

Krunal Pandya has been a key figure in LSG’s IPL campaigns, offering reliable middle-order batting and spin bowling. Despite a lukewarm 2024 season, his ability to perform in multiple roles could appeal to the management.

Krunal’s leadership experience and familiarity with LSG’s setup make him a practical RTM option, especially if the team prioritises an economical pick.