Lucknow Super Giants Hopeful Captain KL Rahul Recovers from Injury for IPL Opener
Lucknow Super Giants coach Justin Langer expressed optimism on Wednesday that captain KL Rahul will be fit to play in their opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season this Sunday.
Rahul missed the final four Tests of India’s recent series against England due to a quadriceps tendon injury. He traveled to London for specialist consultation but has since rejoined the LSG squad and participated in training later on Wednesday, according to ESPNcricinfo.
“We know he’s worked very hard to tick off all his return-to-play protocols,” Langer said in a virtual media interaction. “He’s been practicing, hitting a lot of balls. He’s hopefully ready to go. It’s going to be nice to have the captain with us.”
The Batting Order of LSG Not Confirmed Yet
Rahul’s batting position remains uncertain, with the arrival of Devdutt Padikkal potentially pushing him down from his usual opening spot. This shift could benefit Rahul’s chances of making India’s T20 World Cup squad in June, allowing him to stake a claim in the middle order.
“It’s a good problem to have,” Langer admitted, referring to the selection headache caused by the team’s depth. “My view… is that if the team does well, then everyone gets rewarded. And therefore, from KL’s point of view, if he captains Lucknow Super Giants to an IPL victory, it means he would’ve played well himself.”
Langer, a first-time IPL coach, expressed his admiration for the talent he’s witnessed in LSG’s training sessions. “I cannot believe the depth of talent in India,” he exclaimed. “I’ve seen some players already, just in our franchise, [and] my mind is blown away by the amount of young talent in this country.”
He also commented on the improvements made to the pitches at Ekana Stadium, LSG’s home ground. The pitches received criticism for their slow and low nature during IPL 2023, but Langer observed signs of change during the recent World Cup.
The Lucknow Super Giants will open their IPL 2024 campaign against the Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur on Sunday.
