KL Rahul Opens Up on Leaving Lucknow Super Giants, Citing Desire for Freedom and Fresh Start
KL Rahul, former captain of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has broken his silence regarding his departure from the team, shedding light on his decision. Rahul’s move to leave LSG came after a turbulent season, particularly highlighted by an incident involving team owner Sanjiv Goenka. Following a loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad during IPL 2024, Goenka was seen criticizing Rahul, a moment that sparked controversy and became a trending topic on social media. Despite the backlash aimed at Goenka for his conduct, he later attempted to mend fences with the star cricketer, even inviting Rahul for a conciliatory dinner.
As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, Rahul’s departure from LSG was confirmed, with the wicketkeeper-batsman officially being released by the franchise. While there was speculation and mixed reactions from fans and critics, Rahul has now shared his perspective on the matter. According to him, the decision to part ways was entirely his own and driven by a desire to rediscover his passion for the game in a more relaxed team environment.
“I wanted to start fresh and explore new opportunities. I felt the need to play in a setting where I could experience more freedom and a lighter atmosphere. Sometimes, to move forward and evolve, you need to step away from familiar surroundings,” Rahul stated in a recent interview with Star Sports. His remarks highlight the importance of a supportive and positive team culture, emphasizing his focus on personal and professional growth.
In contrast to Rahul’s departure, the LSG management, led by Sanjiv Goenka, focused on player retention ahead of the next season. The franchise retained five players, including Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Ayush Badoni. Nicholas Pooran, who had a standout season, emerged as their top priority, with the retention process taking only a couple of minutes, according to Goenka. Pooran, recognized for his exceptional performances, will continue with the team under a substantial contract worth INR 21 crore. Meanwhile, Ravi Bishnoi and Mayank Yadav were retained as capped players, while Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni were among the uncapped players who will remain part of the squad.
The retention strategy was a collaborative effort involving key figures such as LSG Head Coach Justin Langer, bowling coach and mentor Zaheer Khan, and the team analyst. Together, they formulated a plan that cost the franchise INR 51 crore for retaining their key players. This strategy underscores the team’s focus on maintaining a core group while building a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
Rahul’s departure signifies a turning point for both the player and the franchise. While his time with LSG had moments of brilliance, the decision to move on appears mutual and rooted in differing visions for the future. Rahul’s desire for a new beginning highlights the evolving dynamics of modern cricket, where players seek not only success on the field but also a nurturing environment that fosters their growth and well-being.
LSG’s management, on the other hand, remains committed to building a strong squad around their retained players. With the IPL 2025 mega auction on the horizon, they aim to make strategic additions to the team, focusing on creating a balanced unit capable of challenging for the title. The involvement of experienced figures like Justin Langer and Zaheer Khan suggests a thoughtful approach to team composition and development.
As for KL Rahul, his decision to seek a fresh start could pave the way for renewed energy and success in the upcoming seasons. It reflects a broader trend in cricket, where players increasingly prioritize holistic growth and seek environments that align with their personal values and professional ambitions. The cricketing world will be watching closely to see how Rahul’s next chapter unfolds and whether his quest for freedom and a lighter atmosphere yields the desired results. Meanwhile, LSG will strive to build on their retained core and compete at the highest level, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of the IPL.