IPL 2026: LSG’s playoff hopes hinge on Pooran amid prolonged batting slump | IPL 2026

Nicholas Pooran’s underwhelming run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has emerged as a key concern for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), with the franchise languishing in the bottom half of the points table after a string of disappointing results. Once a reliable match-winner, Pooran’s struggles with the bat have coincided with LSG’s inconsistent campaign, raising questions about the team’s balance and strategy going forward.

LSG are currently placed ninth, having managed just two wins in six matches. Four defeats and an inferior net run rate of -1.173 have left them with little margin for error in the race to the playoffs. At the centre of their troubles is Pooran’s sharp dip in form — a stark contrast to his prolific performances in previous seasons.

Numbers highlight sharp decline

This downturn is particularly striking given his recent record. In IPL 2025, Pooran scored 524 runs at an average of 43.67 and an explosive strike rate of 196.25. The previous season saw him average over 60. Across his IPL career, he has amassed 2,344 runs in 96 matches at a strike rate close to 165, establishing himself as one of the league’s most destructive middle-order batters.

Impact on LSG’s campaign

Pooran’s role as a finisher and middle-order stabiliser has been crucial for LSG in past seasons. His inability to deliver this year has exposed the team’s fragility in pressure situations. The recent loss while chasing a big total against Punjab Kings — where he managed a run-a-ball nine — highlighted how his struggles are directly affecting outcomes.

With LSG failing to build momentum, the team management faces a pressing decision: persist with an out-of-form match-winner or explore alternatives from the bench. South African batter Matthew Breetzke remains an option, while uncertainty over Josh Inglis’ availability adds another layer of complexity.

Questions over team strategy

Beyond individual form, LSG’s tactical decisions have also come under scrutiny. The franchise has not consistently utilised its overseas slots, fielding just three foreign players in the match against Punjab despite having Breetzke available. Earlier in the season, selection choices such as preferring Shahbaz Ahmed over Digvesh Rathi raised eyebrows.

The use of the Impact Player rule has also appeared inconsistent, with LSG yet to fully capitalise on its strategic potential. In a tightly contested league, such decisions can often make the difference between a playoff berth and an early exit.

Can Pooran rediscover form?

For LSG, the equation is clear: their playoff hopes are closely tied to Pooran rediscovering his touch. A return to form from the West Indies batter could stabilise the middle order and inject the much-needed momentum into their campaign.