Akash Singh earns a spot in LSG's optimal XII as the second new-ball pacer alongside Mohammad Shami. The model assigns him 3 overs with 2 in the powerplay and 1 in the middle. His regressed WAR/M of 0.17 is driven entirely by bowling, with zero batting contribution from 0 batting balls.

His PP dot rate of 48% edges above the 46% league average, and 69% of his bowling balls come in the powerplay, confirming his new-ball specialization. The bowling role fit of 0.95 is adequate rather than elite, suggesting he is a solid depth option rather than a premium choice.

Role in Optimal XII

Singh's bowling role justification notes a concern: a PP boundary rate of 25% versus the 22% average. He concedes boundaries more frequently than average while maintaining dot pressure. That profile is inconsistent: he either beats batters or gets hit to the fence, with limited in-between.

His PP economy is acceptable, and his 48% dot rate is marginally above average. The model selects him because LSG's squad lacks better domestic pace options for the new-ball role.

Bowling Phase Breakdown

Powerplay (1-6) (63% of balls): 8.4 economy with 7 wickets. Solid control in the powerplay.

Middle (7-15) (23%): 9.0 economy. Near the league average.

Death (16-20) (14%): 10.2 economy. Not deployed here in the optimal plan.

Sample Size

With 271 bowling balls and 53% IPL confidence, Singh is still an unproven quantity at IPL level. His projected WAR/M of 0.14 drops below his regressed figure, reflecting the uncertainty that comes with limited data.

What This Means for IPL 2026

Singh's xImpact of 52 projects him as a role player who fills a necessary squad gap. LSG needs a second new-ball pacer to complement Shami, and Singh fills that role. His ceiling is limited but his floor is acceptable. If he can reduce his PP boundary rate while maintaining dot pressure, he becomes a more reliable option.