Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have made a big addition to their coaching staff ahead of the IPL 2026. Kane Williamson, the New Zealand superstar will be part of the side in his acumen as a strategic advisor to provide counsel and leadership values to the team. The announcement was made by Sanjiv Goenka, the team owner Sanjiv Goenka, who lauded Williamson’s “leadership and strategic acumen in inspiring players,” as a crucial part of LSG’s growth plans.
Williamson said he is excited for the opportunity and looks forward to working with a talented side and experienced coaching group. The 35-year-old last played for New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final against India earlier this year and will take up a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket, ensuring international appearances are few and far between. But he is hopeful of returning for the ODI series against England though.
The franchise also announced that Justin Langer will remain at the helm of the side and Bharat Arun has been retained as fast bowling coach. Carl Crowe, who used to work with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as their spin consultant, has been appointed as LSG’s spin-bowling coach.
Langer said the team heads into the 2026 season “with hope and expectation” and that its preparation has been under way since last season finished. LSG, he added, has one goal and that is to create a franchise which their fans can identify with – and doing so in such a way as to make them say I am proud we have Ekana bathed in blue when it’s time for the IPL.
Cool. Calm. Calculated. Kane Williamson is now part of our think tank as our Strategic Advisor. 🙌
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) October 16, 2025
Welcome to Lucknow, Kane Mama! 💙 pic.twitter.com/t5v9OGMqyU
Williamson has never served as part of a team’s support staff on any level before, the tactical acumen and measured temperament another respected voice in world cricket. He took New Zealand to the ODI World Cup final in 2019 and their first-ever WTC title in 2021.
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LSG, captained by Rishabh Pant, ended seventh in consecutive IPL 2024 and 2025 from third places they had finished in their first couple of seasons (2022 and 2023) respectively. The franchise is hoping to return to their early experience of winning back in IPL 2026 with the appointment of Williamson and fortifying their coaching staff.
