And the rumours mill continued to give regarding the Indian Premier League (IPL). After all the rush regarding Ashish Nehra and the Gujarat Titans (GT) breakup news, it looks like the confirmation has come on KL Rahul leaving the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). However, despite all the news with him rejoining his former franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the Karnataka lad might end up going at the IPL 2025 auction. Apart from this, we can also expect some shuffles in the Punjab Kings (PBKS) management as well.
KL Rahul confirmed to leave LSG?
KL Rahul’s days with the LSG are likely numbered. After a reported fallout with team owner Sanjiv Goenka, the star batter is set to be released by the franchise. This makes him a prime target for teams in the upcoming IPL auction. While many speculated a return to RCB, Rahul will be available for any team to bid on.
Hardik Pandya vs Abhishek Nayar?
Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Nayar, the new Indian assistant coach, had a comical disagreement during the team’s first training session in Pallekele. A heated debate erupted over whether a shot by Pandya was a boundary. The duo couldn’t settle the dispute and hilariously sought the opinion of a nearby journalist. The comical incident ended with laughter, and Pandya eventually winning the bout.
Ex-PAK coach slams into Pandya!
Former Pakistan and Baroda coach Dav Whatmore slammed Hardik Pandya for neglecting domestic cricket. The all-rounder, known for his white-ball exploits, has played just 29 first-class games. Whatmore questioned Pandya’s “all-rounder” tag, given his absence from domestic cricket. However, Pandya is set to return to action in the Vijay Hazare Trophy after the Sri Lanka series, following BCCI’s mandate for domestic cricket participation.
PBKS to part ways with coach Bayliss
Punjab Kings are set to replace head coach Trevor Bayliss after two seasons of poor results. Despite a strong squad, the team has failed to make the playoffs. The franchise is looking for an Indian replacement and current director of cricket Sanjay Bangar is the frontrunner. While there’s no issue with Bayliss’ coaching, the team’s performance has led to this decision.
Stuart Broad bats for Flintoff to be ENG’s coach
Stuart Broad has thrown his weight behind Andrew Flintoff as England’s next head coach. With England’s recent World Cup failures sparking a review, Broad believes Flintoff’s coaching style, honed in The Hundred, makes him a strong contender. Players reportedly love working with Flintoff, and Broad sees his Hundred role as a stepping stone to bigger coaching jobs.
Chameera blow to Sri Lanka!
Sri Lanka’s pace spearhead Dushmantha Chameera is out of the upcoming T20I series against India due to injury. This is a big blow for the hosts as Chameera is their go-to bowler in the format. Asitha Fernando replaces him. It’s been a tough time for Chameera, who’s been plagued by injuries in recent years, missing out on major tournaments like the 2023 ODI World Cup and IPL 2024.