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In a surprising twist during the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) stepped onto the field at Eden Gardens wearing green and maroon jerseys. This departure from their usual dark blue attire raised eyebrows and sparked curiosity among fans. Why this sudden change? Let’s delve into the story behind the colors and the significance they hold.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) sported a different jersey while playing against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 28th match of IPL 2024 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Instead of their usual dark blue jersey, LSG wore a green and maroon jersey as a tribute to the city and its famous football club, Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The maroon jersey has a connection to the city of Kolkata and the football club, as both LSG and Mohun Bagan Super Giant share the same owner, Sanjiv Goenka’s RPSG group
The LSG franchise, owned by the RPSG Group, has always sported a dark blue jersey. However, for their match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), they decided to pay homage to Kolkata’s rich football heritage. The maroon and green combination holds a special place in the hearts of Kolkata sports enthusiasts, and LSG’s decision was a nod to this legacy.
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The decision to wear the maroon jersey was also made last year when LSG played against KKR in Kolkata, resulting in a thrilling match where LSG emerged victorious by a margin of just one run. The maroon jersey is a secondary kit that was first introduced in the previous season. The match against KKR was also a chance for LSG to pay homage to their sister football club, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, which is currently competing in the Indian Super League.
The Mohun Bagan Connection
The maroon and green colors are synonymous with Mohun Bagan Athletic Club, one of Kolkata’s oldest and most revered football clubs. Founded in 1889, Mohun Bagan has a storied history, with numerous national and international titles to its name. The club’s iconic green and maroon jersey has been worn by legendary players and has become a symbol of Kolkata’s passion for football.
The RPSG Group, which owns the LSG franchise, also holds ownership of Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) in the Indian Super League (ISL). The decision to don the maroon and green jersey was a dual tribute—to Kolkata and to the football club that has captured the city’s imagination for over a century.
Eden Gardens, the iconic cricket stadium in Kolkata, is considered LSG’s second home. The franchise’s owners’ office is a mere 6 kilometers from the ground, making it a familiar and cherished venue. The proximity to Eden Gardens and the shared ownership of Mohun Bagan further strengthen the bond between LSG and the city.
In the game, KKR’s skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and decided to bowl first, citing the electrifying crowd and the team’s return to Kolkata after playing away games. LSG’s captain, KL Rahul, expressed his preference to bowl first as well, but acknowledged the good condition of the pitch. Both teams made changes to their lineup, with LSG bringing in Deepak Hooda and Mohsin Khan, and KKR including Harshit Rana
Despite the change in jersey color, LSG faced a formidable KKR side. The match was a high-stakes encounter, and both teams fought fiercely. Although KKR emerged victorious, the maroon-green jersey garnered support from fans in the stadium. The vibrant colors stood out against the lush green outfield, creating a visual spectacle.
## KL Rahul’s Perspective
LSG’s captain, KL Rahul, acknowledged the significance of the match and the jersey choice. “It was crucial to recuperate with such a short turnover,” he said. “The key is to ensure everyone is well-rested and recovered. There are a few changes—Devdutt Padikkal and Naveen-ul-Haq are rested, Shamar Joseph and Deepak Hooda return. Mohsin Khan also makes his comeback.”
## A Nostalgic Return
KKR’s skipper, Shreyas Iyer, summed up the sentiment: “It feels nostalgic—the crowd’s energy is electrifying, and this is what we missed playing away from Kolkata. It’s a great feeling to be back.” His words echoed the emotions of players and fans alike, as the maroon-green jersey evoked memories of Kolkata’s football glory.
In a league where tradition meets innovation, the Lucknow Super Giants’ jersey choice was a bold statement. It bridged the gap between cricket and football, celebrating Kolkata’s sporting legacy. As the IPL continues, fans will remember this unique tribute—a fusion of colors that transcends boundaries and unites sports enthusiasts across disciplines.
The Lucknow Super Giants’ decision to wear green and maroon jerseys pays homage to Kolkata’s football heritage and creates a visual spectacle on the cricket field. As the IPL unfolds, the vibrant colors serve as a reminder of the city’s passion for sports.
