Nicholas Pooran Exclusive: 'LSG Feels Like Home' - Lucknow star on IPL Journey, Leadership & Title Aspirations

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As the IPL 2025 nears, the stars across the globe will be aiming to showcase their prowess in the two-month-long tournament.

Lucknow Super Giants, one of the new names in IPL, are gearing up for the new season and have a new leader in Rishabh Pant at the helm. Their mainstay, Nicholas Pooran, the swashbuckling West Indies cricketer will also play a major role.

Pooran has been a prolific player for Lucknow since his arrival in 2023. The southpaw has scored runs in crunch situations and had his best season in the IPL last year, where he amassed 499 runs.

And the West Indies star recently sat for an exclusive interview with MyKhel, which was facilitated by Parimatch. He spoke about his journey with LSG, their aspirations for the upcoming season, his leadership experiences, and more.

On Lucknow Super Giants Journey

Nicholas Pooran will be playing his third season for Lucknow and is looking forward to the new season.

"It's a wonderful feeling to be back in the IPL, especially in Lucknow, which feels like home now. I'm really eager to get back on the cricket field and play in front of the amazing fans at the Ekana Stadium."

Consistent Performances and Role in LSG

Pooran's focus lies in performing consistently for Lucknow Super Giants this season and the West Indies player heaps praises on the LSG management for giving him the opportunity.

"Lucknow welcomed me with open arms, and I am really happy that they took a chance on me. The IPL is intense with auctions, price tags, and criticism, but LSG has always backed me. That support allows me to play my natural game.

As for my role, I don't think much has changed. The goal remains the same-to contribute towards winning games and playing an entertaining brand of cricket. The ultimate aim is to be champions and establish LSG as one of the most successful franchises in T20 cricket."

The LSG Championship Conundrum

Despite being a consistent qualifier for the playoffs, Lucknow is yet to taste the silverware. And Pooran believes they need holistic improvement to reach the next level.

"I believe you don't just turn up and win; it's all about preparation. Lucknow is still a relatively new franchise, and we are learning what it takes to succeed. We now have a better understanding of the cricket we need to play, the type of players required, and how to leverage our home advantage.

I believe we are making the necessary changes to improve, and this could be the start of something special. Our journey continues, and let's see where it goes."

Leadership and the Rishabh Pant Factor

The West Indies star captained LSG for a few matches in the past, but will be playing under Rishabh Pant this season. The Indian star was roped in as the highest-paid player in IPL history in the auction. Although Pooran is assured of Pant's quality as a leader, he confirms that the duo will work things out together on the field if it is necessary.

"Rishabh brings a fresh perspective and energy to the team. He's a special cricketer and a great leader. The squad fully supports him both on and off the field, and we're looking forward to the season ahead.

I am an open book. Rishabh knows he can come to me anytime, and I can do the same with him. We have a strong relationship, and communication has never been an issue. He has my full support, and along with experienced players like Miller and the overseas contingent, we will work together to push LSG towards success."

West Indies Cricket: The Road to Revival?

"It's a journey that started years ago, and we are still in a tough position. But under Darren Sammy, along with a new president and directors, we are trying new things. The international cricket landscape is changing, with T20 leagues taking priority, and player availability is always a challenge.

That said, we need to focus on the present and the future rather than dwell on the past. The key lies in proper structure, player development, and getting consistent opportunities at the highest level."

The West Indies star also praised the sponsorship they are generating from the brands such as Parimatch, who has been an integral part of their growth in the grassroots level.

"It's great to have brands supporting cricket. Financial backing plays a crucial role in development, ensuring young talents get the resources they need. It's all about helping players achieve their dreams, and I'm happy to be associated with a brand that shares that vision."

Lucknow's Pace Woes

The pace trio of Lucknow Super Giants are yet to get clearance from NCA for their IPL participation. Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan and Avesh Khan - all are currently nursing injuries and are likely to miss the start of the season, but Pooran is pretty hopeful that they shall play their part and believes they can make an impact.

"It's a big blow since we built our team around them. However, the IPL is a long tournament. But it's not about how you start a tournament, it's how you finish. And at some point in time, this tournament, they will be available for us. And we are waiting for the arrival as well."

Zaheer Khan as Mentor

"Having Zaheer Khan as a mentor is a massive advantage for our young bowlers, and this season will be an invaluable learning experience for them. He's a perfect guy for these bowlers to learn from. In these next two months here, it'll be educational for all of us, not only myself but for the bowlers. It'd be nice to see him interact with the younger bowlers and teach them."

With a strong squad and an ambitious mindset, Nicholas Pooran and LSG are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting IPL season. Will this be the year they finally lift the trophy? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain, the dynamic Caribbean will be going all guns blazing as they aim to find the elusive success.