KL Rahul’s Omission from Lucknow Super Giants Raises Questions
Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have made their player retentions, notably excluding star batter KL Rahul. This decision has sparked discussions and raised questions about the reasons behind Rahul’s departure.
LSG’s retained players include Nicholas Pooran (Rs 21 crore), Ravi Bishnoi (Rs 11 crore), Mayank Yadav (Rs 11 crore), Mohsin Khan (Rs 4 crore), and Ayush Badoni (Rs 4 crore). Owner Sanjiv Goenka explained the team’s retention strategy, emphasizing the importance of players who prioritize team success over personal aspirations.
“We wanted players who have a mindset to win, who put the team before their personal goals and personal aspirations,” Goenka said. “Our first retention was an automatic choice, and we have two uncapped retentions in Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni.”
However, Goenka’s comments have been met with criticism on social media, with many questioning the exclusion of Rahul, who has been a key player for LSG in the past. Some have suggested that Rahul’s batting style, which has been criticized for its slow strike rate, may have influenced the decision.
According to a source quoted by PTI, Rahul’s batting style was indeed a factor in his non-retention. “Rahul’s SR for three years with LSG is 136.13, 113.23, and 135.38,” the source said. “In today’s T20, when even the Indian team had to change its philosophy, these numbers weren’t acceptable.”
Rahul’s departure from LSG leaves a significant void in the team’s batting lineup. He has been a consistent performer for the franchise, scoring 616 runs in 2022 and 520 runs in 2023. His leadership skills have also been praised, as he captained LSG to the playoffs in both seasons.
It remains to be seen how LSG will fill the void left by Rahul’s absence. The team will have the opportunity to acquire new players through the IPL auction, which is scheduled to take place in December 2024.
