As the Indian Premier League (IPL) retention deadline approaches, excitement and speculation are in full swing. Fans and analysts are eager to see which players will be retained, released, or given the Right to Match (RTM) option. Amidst all the buzz, KL Rahul’s future with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has become a focal point, with Cricbuzz suggesting his departure is imminent.
KL Rahul desire to bat in middle order
One of the primary reasons behind Rahul’s possible exit from LSG revolves around his batting position. Rahul had expressed his desire to bat in the middle order, both last season and earlier this year, during a meeting with LSG management. However, due to team dynamics and the need for a solid opener, his wish never materialised, and he was once again tasked with opening the innings for LSG in the IPL 2024 season ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Rahul’s discomfort with the opening position is a significant factor in the strained relationship with the franchise. His desire to bat lower down the order, where he feels more comfortable and could potentially have more impact, clashed with the team’s needs. This has led to tensions between the player and the management, which include mentor Zaheer Khan and head coach Justin Langer.
Concerns over KL Rahul form and leadership
Another point of contention has been KL Rahul’s batting style and strike rate. While Rahul is known for his ability to anchor innings, his tendency to play conservatively has drawn criticism in the fast-paced T20 format. LSG’s management has been concerned about his relatively slow strike rate as an opener, which sometimes put pressure on the rest of the batting line-up.
Additionally, there have been concerns about Rahul’s leadership. As captain of the team, he struggled to inspire consistent performances, both individually and as a leader. These factors combined have led the LSG management to consider moving on from Rahul ahead of the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction.
LSG future plans and KL Rahul likely release
While the separation between KL Rahul and LSG seems mutually acceptable, the franchise is looking at the future with other key players in mind. The retention of Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, and Mohsin Khan—all critical to the team’s plans—appears more likely. LSG may also look to retain promising uncapped players like Ayush Badoni, focusing on a younger, more dynamic squad.
Despite having the Right to Match (RTM) option for Rahul, LSG is unlikely to use it, signalling a clear end to the Rahul era at Lucknow. However, the franchise may consider using the RTM for someone like Marcus Stoinis, a valuable all-rounder, as part of their long-term strategy.
Fresh start for KL Rahul?
For KL Rahul, a fresh start with a new franchise could be the best outcome. With his recent struggles in form, leaving LSG could offer him a chance to reinvent himself in a more suitable role. As the IPL retention deadline looms, it’s clear that KL Rahul’s journey with LSG is coming to a close, paving the way for new beginnings for both the player and the franchise.
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