Avesh Khan (LSG): -0.6 Ecae Keeps Experienced Pacer Outside Optimal XII
Avesh Khan brings 123 T20 matches of experience to LSG's pace reserves, but his IPL 2025 numbers kept him out of the optimal XII. His economy of 10.1 across 47.3 overs was expensive, and his Ecae of -0.6 confirms he leaked runs above what the model expected for the phases he bowled in.
His regressed WAR/M of 0.17 and projected WAR/M of 0.19 suggest the model expects some recovery. Across 2646 career bowling balls, his long-term track record is solid enough to warrant squad inclusion.
Why He Misses the XII
LSG's four pace slots go to Shami (new ball), Akash Singh (new ball), Mayank Yadav (death), and Mohsin Khan (death). Avesh's bowling surplus of -30 in IPL 2025 was the worst among LSG's pace options. He conceded more runs above replacement than any other pacer in the squad.
His IPL confidence of 83% is among the highest on the roster, meaning the -0.6 Ecae is based on a substantial sample and is unlikely to be a fluke.
Path to the XII
Avesh enters on rotation or if his recent form improves in warm-ups and early matches. He offers experience and the ability to bowl in any phase, which makes him a useful tactical substitute.
What This Means for IPL 2026
Avesh's xImpact of 33 projects him as a below-average contributor. He is a squad depth option whose main asset is reliability and experience. LSG may use him in specific matchups or on surfaces that suit his skill set, but he is not in the first-choice plans.