The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are set for a significant shake-up as reports indicate head coach Justin Langer is likely to be removed after the IPL 2025 season.
Langer, who joined the franchise in July 2023 following a successful stint with the Australian national team, was brought in with high expectations after LSG parted ways with mentor Gautam Gambhir.
High Hopes, Disappointing Results
LSG had made the IPL playoffs in 2022 and 2023 but failed to progress beyond the Eliminator. Under Langer’s leadership, the franchise hoped to finally capture their maiden IPL title.
However, the last two seasons have seen a dip in performance, with LSG failing to qualify for the playoffs in 2024 and struggling with inconsistency in 2025.
The team’s inability to meet expectations, especially when compared to other new franchises like Gujarat Titans, who reached back-to-back finals and won the title in their debut season, has increased pressure on Langer’s position.
Dressing Room Discord and Zaheer Khan’s Growing Influence
Sources suggest that all is not well behind the scenes. There are reports of a lack of close relationships between Langer and key players, and a disconnect within the dressing room.
Zaheer Khan, who was brought in as mentor, is reportedly handling most day-to-day duties, with several players looking to him for guidance.
This shift in authority has led to speculation that Zaheer could be elevated to the head coach role once Langer’s exit is formalized.
“The dressing room structure isn’t good, and it’s reflecting on the field. It’s essentially Zaheer who’s running the team. Either Langer or the franchise will make the exit official in the coming months after a review of the team’s performance a source told CricBlogger.
Goenka’s Challenge and Langer’s Response
Langer was famously lured to LSG by owner Sanjiv Goenka’s challenge that he could not be considered a great coach until he won the IPL.
Despite his decorated coaching CV, including a T20 World Cup win with Australia and multiple Big Bash titles, Langer has found IPL success elusive. His frustration with elements of the IPL, such as the mega auction rules, has also surfaced publicly.
What Next for LSG?
With the season drawing to a close and LSG falling short of expectations, the franchise is expected to announce Langer’s departure following a comprehensive review.
Zaheer Khan is the frontrunner to take over as head coach, signaling a new direction for the team as they look to rebuild for IPL 2026.
