KL Rahul has had an unusual IPL season as the captain of the Lucknow Super Giants. In the past, LSG would be comfortably placed in the Top 4 of the points table when the business end of the tournament would start. However, this time, the Super Giants are sixth in the standings with 12 points from 12 matches.
Their net run rate took a pounding as the Sunrisers Hyderabad crushed them by 10 wickets last night at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. Courtesy of this loss, LSG’s chances of qualifying for the playoffs have reduced significantly.
After the 10-wicket loss against SRH, LSG team owner Sanjiv Goenka was spotted having an animated chat with captain KL Rahul. Although one could not hear what exactly the conversation was about, it was clear that the LSG owner was scolding his captain for the embarrassing show in Hyderabad. A fan even wrote on X:
“Goenka is a serious owner and he won’t be sparing this …. After this match he won’t give 1st retention to KL if they retain him or he would actually leave him into auction …. I doubt he would even let the KL board bus.”
Goenka is a serious owner and he won't be sparing this …. After this match he won't give 1st retention to KL if they retain him or he would actually leave him into auction …. I doubt he would even let the KL board bus.
— Sai (@akakrcb6) May 8, 2024
Assuming there is a change in captaincy for the remaining two matches of IPL 2024, here are two players who can replace Rahul.
1. Nicholas Pooran can replace KL Rahul as LSG captain
Nicholas Pooran is the vice-captain of the Lucknow Super Giants. He even captained LSG in a game, where Rahul could not come out to field. Since Pooran can keep the wickets as well, he will be the perfect option to lead LSG in their last two league games.
2. Krunal Pandya
Many IPL teams have preferred having an Indian skipper. LSG did the same last year when Rahul was injured. All-rounder Krunal Pandya led the side, and he guided them to the playoffs. Perhaps, it’s time for captain Krunal to step up and deliver the goods once again.
