KL Rahul Set to Leave Lucknow Super Giants Ahead of IPL Mega Auction

KL Rahul Set to Leave Lucknow Super Giants Ahead of IPL Mega Auction

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are poised to bid farewell to their captain, KL Rahul, ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. The IPL governing council has set October 31 as the deadline for teams to finalize their retained and released player lists.

According to Cricbuzz, Rahul has expressed his desire to depart LSG after the management declined his request to bat in the middle order due to team composition and dynamics. The report also suggests that LSG may exercise their Right To Match (RTM) card for Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis.

“While LSG has the option to exercise the RTM for Rahul, the chances of that happening are remote – virtually nil. They may do it for a player like Marcus Stoinis,” the report states.

With Rahul’s departure imminent, LSG is expected to retain Nicholas Pooran, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohsin Khan, and Ayush Badoni, with the latter two being uncapped retentions.

Rahul has been linked to several teams ahead of the auction, but if he enters the bidding pool, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is likely to pursue their former player aggressively. Rahul played for RCB in 2013 and 2016 before joining Punjab in 2018.

Rahul’s strike rate has been a concern for LSG. Since the 2019 IPL season, he has not scored at a strike rate above 140, dropping as low as 113 in 2023.

If Rahul and LSG mutually part ways, he will become one of the most sought-after Indian players in the auction pool. Rahul has amassed 4,683 IPL runs at an average of 45 and a strike rate of 134.

Rahul’s recent struggles have extended to the international arena, as he was dropped from India’s playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. However, he has been included in the squad for the upcoming Test tour of Australia.

Afghan Fan Drives 14 Hours to Meet Cricket Idol Marcus Stoinis

Afghan Fan Drives 14 Hours to Meet Cricket Idol Marcus Stoinis

Marcus Stoinis, the Australian all-rounder currently playing for the Texas Super Kings (TSK) in the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the US, received a heartwarming surprise after TSK’s match against the Seattle Orcas in Dallas. A dedicated female fan from Afghanistan, who had traveled 14 hours from Colorado Springs, waited patiently to meet her idol.

The fan, whose name was not disclosed in the video shared by TSK on social media, expressed her admiration for Stoinis, saying, “I am from Afghanistan…I always talked about him (Stoinis) with my school friends.” She had created a special poster for her favorite player and enthusiastically cheered for him from the stands.

“I thought this (MLC) is going to be a big opportunity to come and see him, cheer for him. That was like one of my dreams, which has come true…I had to drive for 14 hours from Colorado Springs…to just come and see him,” she said.

When asked how she would react if she met Stoinis in person, she replied, “I have no idea what I am going to do, maybe I will start crying or something.”

After the match, Stoinis made the fan’s dream come true by meeting her. The video of their encounter, captioned “The Yellove is unmatched,” went viral on social media.

Stoinis’s gesture not only touched the fan’s heart but also highlighted the global reach and impact of cricket. The MLC, a new professional cricket league in the US, is providing a platform for players from around the world to showcase their skills and connect with fans.

The fan’s dedication and Stoinis’s kindness serve as a reminder of the power of sports to inspire and bring people together.

Australian World Cup Squad Members Shine in IPL

Australian World Cup Squad Members Shine in IPL

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches its climax, several Australian World Cup squad members have made significant contributions to their respective teams. Here’s a detailed analysis of their performances over the past week:

Mitchell Starc’s Inconsistent Form

Mitchell Starc’s tournament has been a tale of ups and downs. In the past week, he claimed 4 for 33 in Kolkata Knight Riders’ victory over Mumbai Indians, showcasing his ability to deliver in crucial moments. However, his overall economy rate of 11.37 remains a concern for Australia.

Marcus Stoinis’ Sublime Performances

Marcus Stoinis has continued to excel in the IPL, earning Player-of-the-Match honors against Mumbai Indians. His versatility with the ball and his ability to control the chase with the bat have been instrumental in Lucknow Super Giants’ success.

Pat Cummins’ Captaincy Masterclass

Pat Cummins has impressed as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad, leading them to a thrilling final-ball victory over Rajasthan Royals. His astute bowling and captaincy skills were crucial in securing the win, despite dropping a crucial catch earlier in the match.

Travis Head’s Consistent Batting

Travis Head has maintained his impressive form, scoring a half-century against Rajasthan Royals. While it was his slowest knock of the tournament, it demonstrated his ability to adapt to different situations.

Maxwell and Green’s Batting Concerns

Despite promising signs for Australia’s World Cup campaign, Glenn Maxwell and Cameron Green’s batting form remains a slight concern. Maxwell has struggled to find his rhythm, while Green has shown glimpses of potential but needs to find consistency.

Conclusion

As the IPL enters its final stages, the performances of these Australian players will be closely monitored by the national selectors. While some have impressed, others have work to do to secure their places in the World Cup squad.

Stoinis Stars as Lucknow Super Giants Triumph Over Mumbai Indians

Stoinis Stars as Lucknow Super Giants Triumph Over Mumbai Indians

Marcus Stoinis Powers Lucknow Super Giants to Victory Over Mumbai Indians

In a thrilling encounter at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, all-rounder Marcus Stoinis led the Lucknow Super Giants to a four-wicket victory over the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.

Stoinis played a pivotal role in Lucknow’s successful chase of 145, scoring a crucial 62 runs and claiming a wicket. His innings included five boundaries and three sixes, providing the impetus for the home team’s victory.

The Mumbai Indians, led by Rohit Sharma, posted a competitive total of 144/9 in their allotted 20 overs. However, the Lucknow bowlers, led by Stoinis and Avesh Khan, restricted the visitors to a manageable score.

In response, Lucknow lost wickets at regular intervals but Stoinis held the innings together with his aggressive batting. He received support from Deepak Hooda (27) and Ayush Badoni (19), who made valuable contributions.

With four wickets and four balls remaining, Lucknow reached their target, securing a crucial victory that moved them to third place in the 10-team table. The Mumbai Indians, on the other hand, remained ninth, just above the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Following the match, Rohit Sharma engaged in a lighthearted exchange with Lucknow’s experienced spinner Amit Mishra, joking about Mishra’s age. The veteran spinner responded with humor, acknowledging his age of 41.

Marcus Stoinis Reveals His Favorite Indian Dish and Powerplay Bowling Strategy

Marcus Stoinis Reveals His Favorite Indian Dish and Powerplay Bowling Strategy

Marcus Stoinis, the all-rounder for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has revealed his favorite Indian dish, dal khichdi, which he has been enjoying during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Stoinis’s all-around performance helped LSG secure a four-wicket victory over the Mumbai Indians (MI) in a thrilling run-chase at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.

In a video shared by the official IPL Twitter handle, Stoinis disclosed his go-to Indian dish, stating, “I have had six eggs, four hash browns, and three coffees. My current favorite Indian dish is dal khichdi. I’ve been feeling a bit under the weather, and I’ve been told it’s a comforting and homely dish.”

Stoinis also discussed his bowling strategy during the powerplay, where he claimed the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav. He explained that he enjoys bowling with the new ball and relies on his swing to generate wickets, despite not being the fastest bowler.

“I’m happy to bowl or bat anywhere. I love competing and the challenge, so give me the ball or the bat, and I’ll give it my all,” added Stoinis.

In the ongoing IPL season, Stoinis has amassed 316 runs at an average of 39.50 and a strike rate of 151.92, including a century and two fifties. He has also taken four wickets.

Stoinis admitted that negative press, pressure, and doubts about his abilities motivate him as a player. “I draw on that energy to give me a competitive mindset and focus on every contest,” he said.

Regarding the dismissal of Suryakumar, Stoinis acknowledged that it wasn’t an exceptional delivery. “But you take those because there are times when you bowl good balls that go for boundaries. It was a bit of luck and fortune, but it was crucial for us to make early inroads,” he added.

Stoinis jokingly compared himself to the “Hulk” and his fellow Australian teammate Tim David, MI’s finisher, to “Bigfoot.” “We’re close, and we play golf together. We talk about golf, but no Hulk or Bigfoot stuff. Although, he has a hairy back, so maybe I’m the Hulk, and he’s Bigfoot,” said Stoinis.

In the match, LSG won the toss and elected to field. MI struggled from the outset, losing four wickets for 27 runs in the powerplay. Nehal Wadhera, Ishan Kishan, and Tim David attempted to salvage the innings, but MI could only manage 144/7 in their 20 overs.

Mohsin Khan was the standout bowler for LSG, claiming 2/36, while Stoinis, Mayank Yadav, Naveen ul Haq, and Stoinis each took a wicket.

In the run-chase, LSG also faced challenges from MI bowlers, losing wickets at regular intervals. Stoinis’ knock of 62 in 45 balls, including seven fours and two sixes, proved crucial in securing a four-wicket victory with four balls and four wickets remaining.

Stoinis was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ for his all-around performance. LSG currently sits third in the IPL standings with six wins and four losses, while MI is ninth with three wins and seven losses.

LSG Triumphs Over MI with Stoinis' All-Round Brilliance

LSG Triumphs Over MI with Stoinis’ All-Round Brilliance

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) emerged victorious over Mumbai Indians (MI) in a thrilling Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter, securing a four-wicket triumph. Despite losing more wickets than hitting boundaries in the powerplay, LSG’s bowlers, led by Mohsin Khan’s impressive pace, restricted MI to a modest total of 144 for 7.

Mohsin’s fiery deliveries proved too much for MI’s batters, claiming the wickets of Rohit Sharma and Nehal Wadhera with a deceptive yorker. Marcus Stoinis, known for his versatility, played a crucial role for LSG, contributing with both bat and ball. His 62 runs at the top of the order and two wickets, including the dismissal of Suryakumar Yadav, proved invaluable.

MI’s batting woes continued as they lost key wickets in quick succession, including Rohit, Suryakumar, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya. Ravi Bishnoi’s economical spell of 4-0-28-1 further stifled MI’s progress. Wadhera’s valiant effort of 46 off 41 was not enough to salvage the innings.

In the chase, LSG’s innings got off to a slow start, with KL Rahul anchoring the innings. However, Stoinis’ aggressive approach, including back-to-back boundaries off Gerald Coetzee, shifted the momentum in LSG’s favor. Stoinis’ ability to handle spin effectively, scoring 29 runs off Piyush Chawla and Mohammad Nabi, proved crucial.

Despite losing Stoinis’ wicket, LSG remained composed, with Deepak Hooda and Ayush Badoni guiding the team to victory with four wickets to spare. The win propelled LSG to third place in the points table, while MI’s struggles continued.

CSK's Chepauk Fortress Breached by LSG's Stoinis Masterclass

CSK’s Chepauk Fortress Breached by LSG’s Stoinis Masterclass

Chennai Super Kings’ Fortress Chepauk Breached by Lucknow Super Giants

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), under the leadership of new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, had a promising start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. However, their momentum was halted by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), who emerged victorious in their last two encounters.

In a stunning turn of events, the Chepauk fortress, CSK’s home ground, was breached by LSG. The visitors chased down a formidable target of 210 with ease, thanks to a brilliant century from Marcus Stoinis.

The match began with CSK posting a competitive total of 210/7 on the board. Gaikwad led the charge with a well-crafted 65, while Shivam Dubey contributed a quickfire 45. However, LSG’s bowlers, led by Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan, kept the CSK batters in check.

In response, LSG openers Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul provided a solid foundation with a 75-run partnership. Stoinis then took center stage, smashing a breathtaking 104 off just 56 deliveries. His innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring 10 fours and 8 sixes.

Despite a late cameo from Deepak Hooda, CSK’s bowlers were unable to contain Stoinis’ onslaught. LSG cruised to victory with 10 balls to spare, handing CSK their third consecutive defeat.

The loss has raised concerns about CSK’s form and their ability to defend their title. The team has struggled to find consistency in both batting and bowling, and their fielding has also been below par.

Meanwhile, LSG’s victory has propelled them to the top of the IPL standings. Stoinis’ heroics have been a major factor in their success, and the team will be hoping to continue their winning ways in the upcoming matches.

Marcus Stoinis Eyes International Return Despite Missing Out on CA Contract

Marcus Stoinis Eyes International Return Despite Missing Out on CA Contract

Marcus Stoinis, the 34-year-old Australian all-rounder, has expressed his desire to continue playing for Australia beyond the T20 World Cup, despite missing out on a Cricket Australia (CA) contract for 2024-25.

Stoinis, who has been a key member of Australia’s T20I side, has not been offered a CA contract for the upcoming season. However, he remains contracted with CA until June 30, 2023, and is expected to be part of Australia’s squad for the T20 World Cup in October-November.

Speaking after his match-winning century for Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Tuesday, Stoinis said he understood the decision to omit him from the CA contract list. He believes it is an opportunity for younger players to step up and take his place.

“I’ve got a great relationship with the [Australia] coach [Andrew McDonald],” Stoinis said. “Me not getting a contract, I knew that a while ago. I think it is great to give younger kids a crack and let them take my spot. I’m absolutely fine with that on the contract list.”

However, Stoinis made it clear that he still has aspirations to play international cricket beyond the T20 World Cup. He has been in regular communication with McDonald and Australia’s chairman of selectors George Bailey about his future role in the team.

“But on the playing front, obviously want to make sure that I’m there and that’s also why it’s so lucky for us and for me particularly to have this competition [the IPL], that’s why I love it so much,” Stoinis said.

Australia’s next limited-overs assignment after the T20 World Cup is in September in England, which includes five ODIs and three T20Is. They only have one other T20I series in the 2024-25 contract period, against Pakistan at home in November. They also have three ODIs against Pakistan in November, which is their last ODI series before the Champions Trophy.

Stoinis has opted not to seek a state contract with Western Australia, but he has not ruled out playing domestic cricket in the future. His availability will depend on his freelance schedule and WA’s desire for continuity within their program.

Stoinis' Century Powers Lucknow to Stunning Win Over Chennai

Stoinis’ Century Powers Lucknow to Stunning Win Over Chennai

Marcus Stoinis’ blistering unbeaten century propelled Lucknow Super Giants to a stunning six-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings in their IPL encounter on Tuesday. The Australian all-rounder’s 124-run knock, studded with 13 fours and six sixes, helped LSG chase down a daunting target of 211 at the Chepauk.

Stoinis’ innings was a stark contrast to the elegant century scored by CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. The Indian batter’s 108-run knock, featuring 12 fours and three sixes, laid the foundation for CSK’s competitive total. Shivam Dube’s 66-run cameo further boosted the Super Kings’ innings.

Stoinis’ power-hitting was on full display as he effortlessly dispatched the CSK bowlers to all parts of the ground. His six off Mustafizur Rahman, a straight drive over the bowler’s head, was a testament to his brute force.

At the other end, Nicholas Pooran provided valuable support with a 34-ball 51. The West Indian batter’s quickfire innings, including two sixes and a four off Shardul Thakur in the 16th over, kept LSG in the hunt.

Pooran’s dismissal left Stoinis with the responsibility of guiding LSG home. The Australian responded with a flurry of boundaries in the 19th over, reducing the equation to 17 runs off the final over.

Stoinis then smashed Mustafizur Rahman for three fours and a six in the last over, sealing the victory with three balls to spare.

Earlier, Gaikwad and Dube had provided the impetus to CSK’s innings after a slow start. Gaikwad’s classic strokeplay, characterized by precise timing and gap placement, was a delight to watch. He reached his fifty off just 28 balls and went on to score his second IPL century.

Dube’s power-hitting added further momentum to the CSK innings. The left-hander smashed three consecutive sixes off Yash Thakur, helping CSK post a challenging total.

WA Cricketers Opt for Freelance Opportunities, Leaving State Contracts

WA Cricketers Opt for Freelance Opportunities, Leaving State Contracts

The Australian cricket landscape is undergoing a significant shift as several prominent players have been left off state contract lists, opting for freelance opportunities in global franchise leagues. Among them are Ashton Agar, Marcus Stoinis, Jason Behrendorff, and Andrew Tye, who have all been omitted from Western Australia’s (WA) contract list for 2024-25.

Agar’s absence is particularly notable as the 30-year-old all-rounder has elected to pursue freelance opportunities globally, driven by limited playing time in WA’s Sheffield Shield team last season. He has made this decision in consultation with WA’s high-performance staff and Australia’s selectors.

By not taking a contract, Agar frees himself up to play in franchise leagues such as the SA20, ILT20, BPL, and PSL during Australia’s domestic season. Tye, who signed a one-year deal with WA last season, has also opted to go freelance again, while Behrendorff will do so for the first time in his career.

Despite not being contracted, Agar, Behrendorff, and Tye will remain involved in WA’s program when not playing overseas. They will be selected for Marsh Cup games when available, and Agar remains keen to play Shield cricket if an opportunity arises.

Stoinis, 34, is in a slightly different situation. He has not played for WA since March 2020 and is exploring the possibility of signing a year-round deal with his IPL franchise, Lucknow Super Giants. He has already played for the franchise’s teams in the SA20 and IPL this year.

Meanwhile, WA has added former New South Wales wicketkeeper Baxter Holt and Victoria quick Brody Couch to their squad. Holt is expected to get opportunities in Shield cricket, while Couch is looking for a fresh start after limited playing time in Victoria.

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