CRICKET
5 Players LSG could sign on Justin Langer’s advice
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) signed Justin Langer as their new head coach replacing Andy Flower who led them to back-to-back playoff qualifications. With a new head coach, the Sanjeev Goenka-owned franchise would look to reshuffle their pack of players in the hope of a better season next year. Here are five players that Langer could prefer including to his squad.
Ashton Agar
Ashton Agar (Source: Twitter)
Ashton Agar is a spin-bowling all-rounder who has a knack for big hitting. He is the perfect player that fits the bill for LSG, given their love for all-rounders. Moreover, the surface and playing conditions at LSG’s home ground, the Ekana Stadium suits the type of player Agar is. Last but not least, Agar has had a history of working with Justin Langer during his days with the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League. Langer acted as their coach from 2011 to 2018.
Steve Smith
Steve Smith (Source: Twitter)
Steve Smith missed out on IPL 2023 after declining to register for the IPL Auction. However, he must return to the lucrative franchise league given the experience he has in the earlier editions of the league. Moreover, having someone like Smith will also translate into added assistance for KL Rahul in the leadership structure at LSG. Overall, his experience and calmness could bring a lot of stability to the side.
Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins (Source: Twitter)
LSG has Mark Wood as their paciest bowler. However, he has been highly inconsistent for the franchise, missing out on some key games in IPL 2023. Therefore, Langer could prefer someone who fully commits to the cause. Australian skipper Pat Cummins could be a great option. Moreover, he has spent a lot of time working closely with Langer during his stint as Australia’s coach. Lastly, Cummins has the knack of scoring some big hits in the lower-middle order which is always handy for IPL teams.
Travis Head
Travis Head (Source: Twitter)
The new LSG head coach has a soft spot for Australian batter Travis Head. After his match-winning knock in the World Test Championship 2021-23 Final, Langer heaped praises on him, comparing him to Adam Gilchrist and Rishabh Pant. He could be the next batter to join the LSG middle-order that already includes key players like Nicholas Pooran and Marcus Stoinis.
Andrew Tye
Andrew Tye (Source: Twitter)
Finally, former LSG man Andrew Tye could be given a second chance by Langer. Tye did not receive enough support and backing from the management during his time with the Super Giants. However, that could change with Langer in the set-up. He could look to bid on Tye in the next option. Tye is a wicket-taking bowler, there’s no denying that he could be a great asset for any team with the right amount of backing.