IPL 2024: KL Rahul does not travel with LSG squad for DC clash amid reported rift with team owner

KL Rahul's absence from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad's trip to Delhi for their impending IPL 2024 match against the Delhi Capitals has left many wondering.

Although there are speculations that he might join them directly for the game, the fact that the skipper did not travel in the usual manner has raised eyebrows, especially after their recent 10-wicket humbling against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, who chased down the 166-run target in just 9.4 overs. Post-match, the tensions were palpable as Sanjiv Goenka, the LSG team owner, was seen chatting animatedly with Rahul close to the dugout, igniting talks about his leadership role within the team.

With their playoffs chances hanging in the balance, LSG face a must-win situation against the Delhi Capitals to stay alive in the competition. They are currently positioned seventh with 12 points and their path to the playoffs is not easy. As they brace for this pivotal showdown, all eyes are on Rahul and the LSG squad to reverse their fortunes. 

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Meanwhile, Rahul's form has been scrutinised this season, particularly after being left out of the T20 World Cup squad. However, his batting prowess throughout the IPL 2024 season has been commendable. The wicketkeeper-batter has accumulated 460 runs at an average of 38.33 and a good decent rate of 136.09. Although he has missed out on a century, Rahul notched up three half-centuries this season. 

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Speaking of the LSG franchise, they have been a significant addition to the IPL circuit since 2022 and have qualified for the playoffs in both the seasons they have played so far. Their noteworthy signings included Rahul, Quinton de Kock, Mark Wood, and Marcus Stoinis. Rahul was later appointed as the team captain, with Andy Flower as the head coach and Gautam Gambhir as the team mentor. Despite finishing third in the group stage in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons, they were eliminated in the playoffs.