Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have wasted little time reshaping their plans for the future following the blockbuster trade that saw Rishabh Pant return to Delhi Capitals and Kuldeep Yadav move to the Lucknow-based franchise. While the high-profile swap dominated headlines, LSG have now turned their attention toward strengthening their batting resources with a new coaching appointment and an ambitious overseas training initiative.
The franchise is looking to build greater batting depth ahead of the next IPL season, with several domestic players set to receive specialized coaching in Australia as part of the revamped development program.
Also Read: 'One owner wants to get rid of you': Ex-DC batter's remark sparks debate over Pant-Kuldeep trade
LSG appoint G Jayakumar as batting coach
As part of their restructuring efforts, LSG are set to bring former Kerala cricketer G Jayakumar into their coaching setup as batting coach. Multiple reports have indicated that Jayakumar will work closely with the franchise's domestic talent and become part of a support staff led by director of cricket Tom Moody, head coach Justin Langer, and bowling coach Bharat Arun.
The appointment signals LSG's intent to invest heavily in player development, particularly in the batting department. The franchise is reportedly searching for more power-hitting options, but management is equally focused on nurturing talent already within the squad.
Jayakumar enjoys a strong reputation in domestic cricket circles and is widely credited for his work with emerging Indian batters. Despite being a former pace bowler during his playing days with Kerala, he has established himself as a respected batting coach and has been associated with the development of players such as Sai Sudharsan.
His arrival could also mark a change in the coaching structure, with reports suggesting that Lance Klusener is unlikely to remain part of the setup moving forward.
Australia training program planned for Indian batters
Alongside the coaching appointment, LSG are preparing to send a group of Indian batters to Perth for an intensive training stint under Justin Langer. The initiative is aimed at exposing young players to challenging conditions while helping them improve their power-hitting and overall batting skills.
The group is expected to include Himmat Singh, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, and Arshin Kulkarni. Most of the players are likely to travel to Australia next week before later linking up with Jayakumar in Chennai for further training.
Also Read: Rishabh Pant's Rs 15 crore DC return confirmed as Kuldeep Yadav heads to LSG for...
The move comes shortly after the completion of the Rishabh Pant-Kuldeep Yadav trade, which reportedly leaves LSG with a healthy purse heading into the next auction cycle. With additional funds available and further squad adjustments expected, the franchise appears determined to build a stronger and more balanced unit for the seasons ahead.