Arjun Tendulkar does not make LSG's optimal XII, but his regressed WAR/M of 0.17 makes him a viable replacement option. His PP economy of 7.0 across his career is strong, sitting 2.1 runs below the 9.1 average. His death economy of 8.2 also sits well below the death average.

Why He Misses the XII

LSG's optimal XII already includes Shami and Akash Singh as new-ball pacers, plus Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan as death specialists. The four-pacer allocation leaves no room for a fifth seam option, particularly given that Rathi and Siddharth fill the spin slots.

Tendulkar's bowling WAR/M of 0.20 is competitive, but the model prioritizes established options with higher bowling role fit scores.

Bowling Profile

Powerplay (59%): 7.0 economy with 4 wickets. His left-arm angle and swing create PP opportunities.

Death (29%): 8.2 economy with 8 wickets. Surprisingly effective at the death.

Middle (12%): 9.5 economy. This is the one phase where he struggles.

Sample Size

With 11 matches and 209 bowling balls, his IPL confidence of 38% reflects significant uncertainty. The numbers look promising but are built on a small foundation.

Path to the XII

Tendulkar enters if Shami or Akash Singh is rested or injured. His left-arm pace provides a different angle that could be tactically valuable against certain lineups. His projected WAR/M of 0.17 holds steady, suggesting the model sees him as a reliable backup.

What This Means for IPL 2026

Tendulkar is a squad depth piece with genuine upside. His xImpact of 49 projects him close to the level of the XI pacers. If he gets opportunities, the PP economy suggests he can contribute. LSG has the luxury of deep pace reserves.