The KL Rahul-Sanjiv Goenka story is unique to the IPL. It’s uncommon to hear about an Indian international player, who holds significant brand value, approaching a franchise owner to discuss his retention and future as captain.
It’s even more unusual to see this happening a year after a video of their argument following a defeat went viral on social media. The video drew massive support from the players and sharp criticism from the owner. Then, to have the owner hold a press conference without committing to the captain’s future? That’s a rare occurrence.
Criticizing KL Rahul for lacking self-respect isn’t fair either. It’s important to remember he’s 32 years old, with just a few prime years left in his career, and he has been a key figure since the team’s first season. Letting go is tough in these situations.
Here are the reasons why KL Rahul should consider leaving LSG for 2025
1. Lacks Full Confidence of the Owner
In his press conference, Goenka appeared to give mixed messages about Rahul. He referred to Rahul as family and downplayed the media reports about their meeting. However, he was non-committal when it came to retaining him and giving him captaincy in IPL 2025.
“We have all of September, October, and November to decide that. Let the policies be out. We have not even thought about the team going forward, whether retention will be three-four-five or six, we have no clue,” Goenka stated. Later in the same conference, he confirmed that the coaching staff, including the new addition of Zaheer Khan, would remain unchanged. This raises a question—why provide clarity on the coaching staff but not on the captain?
After all, a captain is typically the first choice for retention, regardless of how many players can be retained. Planning a team’s future without a set captain is nearly impossible.
How many teams, if in a similar situation, would miss the chance to express confidence in their captain amid speculation? The answer is: very few.
Goenka’s indecision suggests that KL Rahul does not have the same level of support as other captains in the league. This is not a positive sign.
If KL Rahul stays with LSG for IPL 2025, he’ll face even more pressure. A few losses could lead to discussions about Rahul stepping down as captain, rather than focusing on the performance of the players.
Teams like SunRisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings are examples that show a fluid captaincy situation, with the possibility of a mid-season change, is bad for both the team and the players. Rahul should consider leaving LSG before things deteriorate further.
2. A Fresh Start May Be Tough but Necessary
You have to empathize with KL Rahul. He hasn’t lived up to expectations for India or in the IPL, particularly with his batting at the top of the order, but he remains one of India’s top batsmen and was once backed by national selectors for full-time captaincy.
IPL 2025 was difficult for LSG due to various factors, including the form of key players and injuries. However, in the previous two seasons, they reached the playoffs, which is a significant achievement for a new team.
For KL Rahul, who likely feels a connection to a team he helped establish, even thinking about leaving must be tough. But at 32, it might be the best choice for him.
In just three years, Rahul has collected a lot of baggage with LSG. The viral video of an argument with Goenka after a match last season will be hard to forget, as will the awkwardly publicized dinner that followed.
That’s not all: head coach Justin Langer’s public revelation of their personal conversation about “politics” in Indian cricket is another dark mark. On the field, Rahul has struggled to find his best form for LSG.
So, despite the challenges, KL Rahul could benefit from a fresh start. A team with owners who trust his abilities and coaches with whom he can build a strong relationship could bring the stability his career needs.
3. Best Time to Switch Teams
Lastly, there won’t be a better time for Rahul to switch teams. A mega auction is on the horizon, and teams will be looking to release both openers and wicketkeepers.
KL Rahul will be a top player in the auction and could secure a lucrative contract. More importantly, teams like Royal Challengers Bangalore might be looking for a new captain or a future vice-captain.
When teams are in a rebuilding phase, being available in the auction allows a player to become part of their core plans. If KL Rahul waits another year and ends up in a mini-auction due to unforeseen circumstances, fewer teams may need wicketkeeper-batsmen or openers, which could lower his contract value and chances of leadership roles.
At this point in his career, when he is not a guaranteed starter in any format for India, Rahul cannot afford more instability or controversy. The timing is right, and with a push from the team, it’s up to Rahul to make the bold move for his career’s benefit.
Also Read: Rashid Khan Takes Break From Test Cricket To Recover From Back Injury
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