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Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) Nicholas Pooran has struggled for runs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The former West Indies wicketkeeper-batter has managed to score just 51 runs from six innings, his worst run since 2021 when he donned the Punjab Kings (PBKS) jersey for the last time. Amid a lacklustre period, Pooran has got advice from his countryman, Gujarat Titans’ (GT) all-rounder Jason Holder. The 34-year-old wants Pooran to come terms with what has happened and bounce back by not panicking.
"In life, everything isn't really aligned the way we want it to be. He's obviously had a slow start to this year's IPL, but look, we're still not even halfway through the tournament yet,” Holder told PTI.
"So I expect somebody like him to really bounce back and come back really strong, because we all know what he can do when he gets going.
"So it's a matter for him to just stay true to himself, try not to panic, try not to get too consumed with what's going on. We know that a player of his calibre will deliver. He definitely will deliver."
Holder on Pooran’s premature international retirement
So far, Pooran has registered scores of 8, 1, 13, 19, 1 and 9. Many feel that the southpaw's decision to retire from international cricket at 29 years has backfired. Holder was asked to share his opinion on the matter but he distanced himself from it.
"You ran into territory that I don't really want to get into. That's beyond me," the all-rounder said.
Pooran’s place in danger
Pooran may have just a couple of more chances to prove his mettle this season. LSG’s Rs 8.6 Australia recruit Josh Inglis is set to arrive before their May 4 clash against Mumbai Indians (MI). In addition, South African wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Breetzke is waiting for an opportunity as well.
Pooran’s record against LSG’s next opponent
LSG's next game is against Rajasthan Royals (RR). It will be interesting to see whether Pooran continues to bat in the middle order or gets a promotion. From 11 innings against RR, Pooran has scored 211 runs at an average of 23.44 and strike rate of 140.66, including one half-century.
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