Despite main the franchise since its inception in 2022, Rahul’s identify was not included within the LSG’s retention record.
Lucknow Super Giants have formally introduced their retained gamers for the upcoming IPL mega auction. Surprisingly, the franchise has determined to half methods with their former captain, KL Rahul. The retained gamers embrace Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Ayush Badoni, and Mohsin Khan. This marks the tip of a three-year partnership between LSG and KL Rahul.
Following a disappointing match in opposition to SunRisers Hyderabad throughout IPL 2024, the place LSG suffered a ten-wicket defeat, TV cameras captured LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka engaged in a dialog with KL Rahul. The interplay appeared intense, with gestures exchanged between the 2.
In a current video message aired on Star Sports, Sanjiv Goenka make clear the choice to retain Pooran, Bishnoi, Badoni, Mohsin, and Mayank. The message hinted at a potential rift between the group owner and KL Rahul, including an intriguing layer to the group’s dynamics shifting ahead.
“It was a simple mindset to go in with players who have a mindset to win, who put the team first before their personal goals and personal aspirations and we wanted to retain as much as of core we could,” mentioned Sanjiv Goenka.
“Keeping it simple was the key.”
With @LucknowIPL saying their retentions for #IPL2025, #LSG owner #SanjivGoenka shares insights into the considering behind their picks
LIVE NOW #IPLRetentionsOnStar! | #IPLRetentions #TATAIPL2025 #TATAIPL pic.twitter.com/o4rQZfbE7k
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 31, 2024
Sanjiv Goenka emphasised that choosing Nicholas Pooran was an apparent alternative for the franchise, as they aimed to keep up their core group ahead of the upcoming mega auction.
“Our first retention which was an automatic choice, happened within like less than two minutes. We have two uncapped retentions that is Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni. It was a process that Zaheer Khan, Justin Langer and the analyst were involved in,” mentioned Goenka.
“We have gone with three bowlers from previous seasons, all Indians. Pooran was a no-brainer for everyone. Ayush has done well for us at No.6 or No.7,” he added.
KL Rahul showcased his expertise within the IPL 2024 season, taking part in 14 matches for LSG and scoring 520 runs with a mean of 37.14. Despite his constant efficiency with the bat, his strike price got here underneath scrutiny, resulting in criticism for his tempo whereas on the crease.
Throughout his profession within the IPL, KL Rahul has performed a complete of 38 matches for LSG, accumulating over 1,200 runs. His strike price within the 2024 season stood at 136.13, highlighting his capacity to attain shortly when wanted.
As the mega auction approaches, all eyes are on KL Rahul to see which franchise will safe his companies. His confirmed monitor file and talent as a right-handed batter make him a useful asset for any group trying to strengthen their lineup. It will probably be fascinating to see the place he lands within the upcoming season.
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