Big News: KL Rahul to refuse Lucknow Super Giants' retention offer, set to enter the IPL 2025 mega auction

KL Rahul is likely to turn down Lucknow Super Giants' retention offer and enter the IPL 2025 mega auction as per an ESPNCricinfo report.

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LSG captain KL Rahul in this frame

KL Rahul

Highlights:

KL Rahul is reportedly set to turn down LSG owner's retention offer.

KL Rahul might be seen entering IPL 2025 mega auction

KL Rahul's future with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) remains uncertain. The star batsman's non-committal stance has left the franchise in a state of uncertainty.

KL Rahul's uncertain future with LSG

Numerous reports suggest that KL Rahul is likely to enter the IPL 2025 mega auction, hinting a potential departure from LSG. 

Rahul's mixed performances for LSG

Rahul was a key acquisition for LSG ahead of the IPL 2022 season. The franchise invested heavily in him, securing his services for a significant amount of INR 17 crore. In their debut season, Rahul impressed both as captain and batter. He amassed 616 runs at an impressive average of 51.33 and a strike rate of 135.38, leading LSG to the playoffs.

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Unfortunately, injuries hampered Rahul's performance in IPL 2023. He played only nine matches, scoring 274 runs at an average of 34.25 and a strike rate of 113.22. Despite his limited participation, LSG continued to show faith in him, but the team once again fell short in the playoffs.

Rahul's 2023 IPL season was cut short due to injury, limiting him to just nine matches. He managed to score 274 runs at an average of 34.25 and a strike rate of 113.22. Despite his injury, LSG continued to back him. In the 2024 IPL season, Rahul returned to form, scoring 520 runs at an average of 37.14 and a strike rate of 136.12. However, LSG's overall performance was disappointing, as they finished seventh in the league table.

Over his three seasons with LSG, Rahul has been their leading run-scorer, accumulating 1410 runs at an average of 41.47 and a strike rate of 130.67. While his individual performances have been impressive, his impact on the team's overall success has been questioned by many. LSG faced a humiliating 10-wicket defeat against the Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024. Following the match, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen engaged in a heated conversation with captain KL Rahul and head coach Justin Langer, sparking significant controversy.

Goenka's public display of frustration towards franchise's captain drew widespread criticism from fans and experts alike. The incident raised questions about the team's internal dynamics and Rahul's leadership. Reports emerged suggesting that the franchise was unhappy with his captaincy, further fueling speculation about his future with the team. Several cricketers, LSG players, and coaches have commented on the incident, highlighting the impact of such public confrontations on team morale and performance.

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KL Rahul to enter IPL 2025 mega auction

Recent reports suggest that KL Rahul's time with the LSG may be coming to an end. The star batter is expected to enter the IPL 2025 mega auction, indicating a potential parting of ways with the franchise. Despite the public display of support from LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka, who described Rahul as "family," the franchise's decision to retain the player remains uncertain. Reports indicate that Rahul has not committed to a potential retention offer from LSG.

"It is understood that during a meeting with LSG's owners recently Rahul had not committed to accepting if a retention offer was made," the ESPNcricinfo reported.

Notably, the IPL franchises have until October 31st to submit their list of retained and released players to the governing council, which will pave the way for the 2025 mega auction.

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