Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are reportedly considering their first major sacking after finishing a disappointing seventh in IPL 2025 equalling their worst-ever performance. Despite a bold ₹27 crore bid for star player Rishabh Pant, the franchise failed to gain momentum, and according to a Cricbuzz report, mentor Zaheer Khan could be the first casualty of a disappointing campaign.

While Rishabh Pant endured a nightmare season with the bat scoring just 269 runs across 14 matches and visibly struggled with captaincy pressure, insiders suggest the axe may fall instead on Zaheer Khan. The former India pacer was brought in on a one-year deal as team mentor ahead of the season but reportedly did not meet the franchise's expectations. Owner Sanjiv Goenka and the management were unimpressed with the team’s inconsistency and strategic choices.

Tensions within the camp also surfaced throughout the tournament. Pant was frequently seen frustrated on the field and in the dugout, with one match highlighting a heated exchange between him and Zaheer, especially after Pant batted unusually low at No. 7. LSG’s strategy of building an all-Indian bowling unit, reportedly encouraged by Zaheer, also came under scrutiny. Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Akash Deep acquired for a combined ₹23 crore played just eight games between them due to injuries and form issues.

Despite an overhaul before the mega auction, including the departure of original captain KL Rahul, LSG’s performance remained stagnant. Coach Justin Langer is not currently under fire, but Zaheer's future is uncertain, with sources suggesting his contract may not be renewed. As the dust settles on a turbulent season, Lucknow Super Giants appear poised for another round of internal restructuring, starting at the top.