Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will start their IPL 2026 season against Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 5 on April 1 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium. After missing the playoffs last year, LSG aims for a strong start this time. The team has mostly kept its core intact while making a few strategic changes in the off-season.
A significant addition was Mohammed Shami to strengthen their bowling attack, bringing experience and control with the new ball. With a stable squad and few injury concerns, LSG looks well-prepared for IPL 2026.
Here is LSG’s strongest predicted XI vs DC, Match 5, IPL 2026:
Top Order: Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant (C & WK)
LSG has a robust top order. The pairing of Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh offers both stability and aggression, having performed well in the last season. Markram has shown impressive form in Indian conditions, excelling in crucial tournaments.
Rishabh Pant is set to play at No. 3, hoping to anchor the innings. After a break from T20, Pant will aim to blend his experience with his signature innovative batting. Last season, he scored a century against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, demonstrating his potential to influence matches.
Middle Order: Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad
Nicholas Pooran is anticipated to bat at No. 4, adding depth to the middle order. He performed well in the previous season, finishing as the top six-hitter, making him vital for quick scoring.
Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad are expected to play critical roles in the middle overs. Badoni has been impressive in domestic cricket, often leading with composed innings. Samad is likely to be used as a finisher in the end overs.
Avesh Khan (Source: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)
Bowlers: Anrich Nortje, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Digvesh Rathi
The bowling attack will be led by Mohammed Shami, who joins from Sunrisers Hyderabad. His IPL experience and ability to make early breakthroughs will be crucial. Avesh Khan and Mayank Yadav add to the Indian pace options, with Avesh known for his clever variations and Mayank providing raw speed.
Anrich Nortje will be a key overseas fast bowler, bringing pace and aggression. Alongside him, Digvesh Rathi offers a spin option important for controlling the game and taking timely wickets.
Lucknow Super Giants predicted playing XI:
Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant (C & WK), Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Anrich Nortje, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Digvesh Rathi.
Impact Player: Shahbaz Ahmed