IPL: Can improved bowling mask batting weaknesses? Former India cricketer question LSG's lower order

Ahead of the 2026 season, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have bolstered their bowling resources at the mini-auction, but questions remain over their batting depth, especially in the lower middle order, according to former India opener Aakash Chopra. Chopra stated on JioStar, "LSG has kept Rishabh Pant at number three, but the batting order remains a question mark. Pant can play higher, and last season's top order was exceptional—three of the top four batsmen scored over 500 runs, which is very rare. The real issue has been the lower order; at five, six, and seven, players like David Miller couldn't consistently deliver in last season.""This season, LSG have more options in bowling with (Wanindu) Hasaranga, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, along with Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, and Arjun Tendulkar. Despite these improvements, the lower-order batting remains a concern that hasn't been fully addressed," added Chopra.Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also acknowledged the positives in LSG’s bowling signings but shared similar worries about the batting unit. "Looking at Anrich Nortje and Hasaranga, LSG has very strong options, especially in the fast-bowling department, which was much needed. If the fast bowlers stay fit, they form a formidable unit.“Hasaranga is a big benefit - last year, there was a lack of trust from captain Rishabh Pant in Ravi Bishnoi. Hasaranga, bought for 2 crore, is a solid and cost-effective addition.“However, with batsmen like Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad, LSG could have done with one more top-class batter. I was hoping for someone like Livingstone. Overall, there’s still a need for at least five more high-quality batsmen in the squad," Pathan noted.LSG’s decision to spend Rs 8.6 crore on Australian wicketkeeper Josh Inglis also came under the scanner, particularly because of his limited availability for the season."If you look at the batting order for LSG, they're very similar to SRH. Buying Josh, even if he was available for the full season at that price, doesn't make sense because he's not going to be in the starting line-up," concluded former India opener Abhinav Mukund.