Nicholas Pooran’s struggles in IPL 2026 continued as the Lucknow Super Giants batter endured another underwhelming outing against Gujarat Titans at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The West Indian, who stepped away from international cricket to focus on franchise leagues, has yet to find his rhythm this season, and his latest knock only added to the growing concern.

Coming in during a crucial phase of the innings, Pooran never quite looked in control. He managed just 19 runs off 21 deliveries, striking at under 100—far below his usual aggressive standards in T20 cricket. While he did manage to clear the ropes twice, the innings lacked fluency and intent, putting additional pressure on the LSG middle order.

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His dismissal came at a key moment when Lucknow were looking to accelerate. Attempting to go big once again, Pooran mistimed his shot against Gujarat Titans pacer Prasidh Krishna. The ball went straight to Shubman Gill at mid-off, who completed a straightforward catch to send the left-hander back to the pavilion.

Pooran’s form has now become a talking point among fans and experts alike. With expectations high following his decision to prioritise franchise cricket, performances like these have drawn criticism across social media platforms. Many fans have questioned his consistency and impact, especially in high-pressure situations where he is expected to deliver.

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For Lucknow Super Giants, this dip in form is a concern as they look to build momentum in the tournament. Pooran’s role in the middle order is crucial, particularly in the death overs, where his power-hitting can change the course of a game. As the season progresses, LSG will be hoping for a turnaround from their key finisher—because when Nicholas Pooran finds his touch, he remains one of the most dangerous batters in T20 cricket.

Nicholas Pooran left international cricket to focus on the IPL, and now he’s struggling in the league he prioritized over country.

Perfect example of respect the game, or the game will find its own way to humble you. pic.twitter.com/XOTAyL7vFp

— 𝚅𝚊𝚛𝚞𝚗¹⁸ (@varunx18) April 12, 2026

Nicholas pooran scored 19 runs off 21 balls, what a player 👏👏👏

Money Greedy pooran retired from west indies team just to play T10 nd T20 leagues.

Money over country players struggling really Struggling, yesterday Henrich Klassen today Nicholas Pooran.

— ಕನ್ನಡ್ವಿರಾಟ (@kohlificationn) April 12, 2026

Nicholas Pooran announced his retirement from all forms all cricket.

Josh Inglis will replace him in next game. Nicholas Pooran will serve as batting coach in Lucknow Super Giants Nowonwards pic.twitter.com/vuLn3fm1A2

— Harshit  (@I_am_Harshit_17) April 12, 2026

This version of Nicholas Pooran looks like he left his batting form in another IPL season and forgot the password to get it back. 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/dNCvBU7gkN

— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) April 12, 2026

We have seen a different Nicholas Pooran since the start of the ILT20.

Out of a total of 22 times he has batted, his strike rate has been 100 or less in 11 of them.

This is difficult to comprehend!

— Jeet Vachharajani (@Jeetv27) April 12, 2026

“Nicholas Pooran struggling in IPL 2026 — is international retirement the real culprit? 😤

Retired from WI duty in June 2025 at just 29 to chase franchise cash… but since then, the fire looks gone.

NEVER DISRESPECT INTERNATIONAL CRICKET 🙏 #LSGvsGT #TATAIPL2026 pic.twitter.com/ejKFvuyZXT

— 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹  (@CricketCarnivel) April 12, 2026

Nicholas Pooran at the end of this IPL. pic.twitter.com/BuCPEoB3YL

— Crickadda24 (@crickadda24) April 12, 2026