Indian batter KL Rahul is reportedly on the verge of parting ways with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as speculation grows regarding his future with the franchise. According to a recent report by the Times of India, Rahul has indicated personal and professional reasons for this potential move. This has led LSG to reconsider their retention options ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.
KL Rahul All Set to Part Ways with LSG
KL Rahul has been a significant figure for LSG since its inception in 2022. He served as both wicketkeeper-batter and captain. He led the team to the playoffs in their first two seasons. However, LSG’s disappointing seventh-place finish in the 2024 season has raised questions about his future with the team. Despite these setbacks, LSG’s fielding coach Jonty Rhodes praised Rahul’s leadership.
“Getting into the playoffs every time like he has is commendable,” Rhodes stated. He acknowledged the challenges Rahul faced while establishing LSG as a new franchise and noted that his accomplishments should not be underestimated.
Retention Discussions Between LSG and KL Rahul
Discussions between team owner Sanjiv Goenka and Rahul regarding his retention have reportedly been positive. However, sources suggest that despite LSG’s willingness to offer him a top retention bracket, Rahul is inclined to explore other opportunities. This decision comes after a meeting in Kolkata where he expressed his desire to move on from LSG.
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With Rahul’s potential departure from LSG, several franchises are reportedly interested in acquiring him. Teams such as Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, Rajasthan Royals, and Chennai Super Kings are expected to pursue him aggressively during the auction. Given his experience and leadership skills, he is likely to be a hot commodity in the upcoming bidding war.
Financial Considerations for LSG
As per IPL retention guidelines, teams can retain up to six players before the mega auction. Retaining players incurs significant deductions from a team’s auction purse. The first retained player costs INR 18 crore, while uncapped players cost INR 4 crore each. If Rahul does part ways with LSG, it will allow them more flexibility in their budget for new signings.
Despite not being included in India’s T20I plans recently, KL Rahul remains a valuable asset due to his proven track record in the IPL. Over his career, he has played 132 matches and scored over 4,683 runs, including four centuries and 37 half-centuries. His highest score in the league is 132, with an impressive strike rate of 134.6.
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