In a much-needed boost for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), fast bowler Avesh Khan has been given the green light by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to participate in IPL 2025. Having recovered from a knee issue, Avesh Khan is now expected to be available for selection in LSG’s upcoming fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 27 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad.
Avesh Khan IPL 2025: Injury Concerns and Road to Recovery
Avesh last played competitive cricket in late January, with his previous appearance for India dating back to a T20I match against South Africa in November last year. His absence was due to discomfort in his right knee, a condition linked to his extensive workload during the domestic season. The 27-year-old missed Madhya Pradesh’s final league match in the Ranji Trophy due to the injury.
Undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Avesh recently cleared one of his final fitness tests on Monday. Following the successful completion of his rehab, he rejoined the LSG squad on Wednesday, ensuring he would be ready for their second tournament match.
Injury Woes Continue for LSG’s Bowling Unit
Lucknow Super Giants have been struggling with injuries among their key Indian pacers. Mayank Yadav, recovering from a lumbar stress injury, has also suffered a toe injury. Meanwhile, Bengal pacer Akash Deep is still working towards full fitness after sustaining a back injury during India’s Test series in Australia.
Adding to their woes, left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan has been ruled out of IPL 2025 due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear suffered last December. His absence led LSG to rope in experienced all-rounder Shardul Thakur as a replacement.
Lance Klusener Acknowledges Bowling Challenges
Following LSG’s opening loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) in Visakhapatnam, assistant coach Lance Klusener admitted that injuries had depleted their bowling attack.
“At the moment, we don’t have a lot of reserves with the ball, so we’re going to have to just probably mix and match until we start getting players back,” Klusener said during the post-match press conference.
Despite the setback, he emphasized the need to adapt and perform better in Hyderabad, stating, “We’re going to have to stand up and stand tall with the bat in Hyderabad. We’re looking forward to that, but as I said, it’s an opportunity for some youngsters as well, getting their first opportunity. I was really happy for Shardul Thakur – two wickets in the first over,”
With Avesh Khan set to return, LSG hopes to overcome their injury concerns and make a strong comeback against SRH. The much-anticipated clash will occur on March 27 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, where LSG aims to secure their first win.