‘I have a slightly out-of-the-box suggestion’ - Aakash Chopra names potential opening options for Lucknow in KL Rahul's absence

Lucknow Super Giants got the worst news in their previous game against the Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore. As both sides took each other on in the 43rd game of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, Lucknow skipper KL Rahul suffered a thigh injury during the early stages of the game and it has put him on the sidelines.

In his absence, Lucknow would be desperate to name an opener for the injured skipper. Reflecting on the same, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has opined that Lucknow could look at Deepak Hooda and Marcus Stoinis as potential batters who could open the innings for them in the absence of Rahul. 

"KL Rahul might not be available. He got injured on Monday only, so how will he come back on Wednesday? So if he is not there, will they play Manan Vohra? I have a slightly out-of-the-box suggestion - get either Deepak Hooda or Marcus Stoinis to open whether it is a red or black-soil pitch," Aakash Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Marcus Stoinis can hit in such a case: Chopra

After their recent loss to Bangalore, Lucknow will next take on the four-time champions Chennai Super Kings at the Ekana Sports City Stadium in the 45th game of the competition. Coming off a loss and missing the services of KL Rahul, the side could have a mountain to climb when it takes on the MS Dhoni-led side next.

While previewing the game on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra reflected that Stoinis could be best utilised as an opener against Chennai, saying, "Marcus is not going to score runs anywhere other than there. If you talk about Chennai's bowling, they will not bowl spin at the start. They will try to get good, fast bowling. So Marcus Stoinis can hit in such a case."

Chennai are coming into the game after losing their previous two games. Led by MS Dhoni, the team will be keen on getting back to winning ways in their forthcoming match.