KL Rahul, the skipper of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has been under scrutiny following his team’s disappointing performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Despite the criticism, it is speculated that Rahul is likely to lead the team in the last two games.
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Rahul’s captaincy came under fire after LSG’s defeat at the hands of Sunrisers Hyderabad. The team’s performance in the powerplay, particularly Rahul’s batting, has been identified as one of the main reasons for LSG’s below-par show in the league. Rahul, who scored 29 off 33 balls in the powerplay, has a strike rate of 136.09, the lowest among the top eight run-getters in the ongoing seaso.
Despite the criticism, Rahul has managed to score 460 runs in 12 games and could cross the 500-run mark again. However, his strike rate, especially when compared to other top batters like Travis Head and Virat Kohli, has been a point of contention.
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The future of Rahul’s captaincy became a topic of intense debate after a video of LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka’s agitated conversation with Rahul emerged on social media. It is speculated that Rahul might step down and concentrate on his batting in the remaining two games. However, since it’s a matter of just two games, Rahul is expected to continue as the leader of the pack.
“As of now, no decision has been taken but it is understood that if Rahul plans to just concentrate on his batting for the remaining two games, the management won’t mind,” an IPL source told PTI on condition of anonymity.
🚨 REPORTS 🚨
🔹KL Rahul is unlikely to be retained by LSG in the IPL 2025 mega auction.
🔸He might also get replaced as the captain for the remainder of the IPL 2024. #KLRahul #LSG #Cricket #IPL2024 #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/unXQPymgmC— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) May 9, 2024
If Rahul decides to step down, vice-captain Nicholas Pooran, who has been the team’s most impactful batter this season, is likely to lead the side in the remaining two games.
Despite the criticism and the team’s performance, LSG is still mathematically in contention for the IPL playoffs. They can reach 16 points by winning their remaining two games against Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians. However, improving their net run rate, which currently stands at -0.760, will be a significant challenge.
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