LSG to release KL Rahul, retain Mayank Yadav ahead of auction: Sources

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are expected to part ways with their captain KL Rahul following a disappointing IPL 2024 season, where he was unable to guide the team to the playoffs. Rahul, who has been a key player for the franchise since its inception in 2022, is unlikely to be retained after leading the side in three seasons, with mixed results. Despite leading LSG to playoff qualifications twice, his form has dipped, and the management appears to be moving in a new direction.
According to sources, LSG’s management has had extensive discussions about Rahul’s future with the team, ultimately reaching a consensus to part ways. A source close to the franchise was quoted saying, “We have discussed KL’s role with the team management multiple times, and there is consent that we will move forward without him.”
Rahul, one of the most experienced Indian batters in the league, will likely be one of the high-profile names in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. His strike rate in recent seasons has been a point of contention. While he scored 616 runs in 2022 at a strike rate of 135.38, his form dipped in the following season, where his strike rate fell to 113.22. The 32-year-old managed 520 runs at a strike rate of 136.13 in the 2024 edition, but a mid-season injury in 2023 raised concerns about his consistency.
So far, Rahul has played 132 IPL matches, amassing 4,683 runs with a strike rate of 134.61, including four centuries and 37 fifties. Despite his strong track record, the franchise seems prepared to move on and explore other options.
While Rahul is expected to be released, the franchise is reportedly keen on retaining three key players: pace sensation Mayank Yadav, leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, and West Indies’ wicketkeeper-batter Nicholas Pooran.
Mayank Yadav, who has emerged as a valuable asset for LSG, is set to be retained at a significant price. Yadav’s raw pace, which often clocks over 155 kmph, has left opposition batters struggling. Although he only played four matches in the 2024 season before being sidelined by injury, he impressed with seven wickets, including notable performances against the likes of Cameron Green. Following his T20I debut for India against Bangladesh, Mayank’s value has skyrocketed, and LSG is expected to keep him for around Rs 11 to Rs 14 crore.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, another young talent, is also on LSG’s retention list. The former world No. 1 T20I bowler had a relatively quiet season in 2024, taking 10 wickets in 14 matches, but his potential and previous success make him a vital part of LSG’s plans. Bishnoi is set to receive a significant pay raise, having previously earned Rs 4 crore as an uncapped player.
Nicholas Pooran, who served as the team’s stand-in captain during one match in the previous edition, is also likely to be retained. The West Indian wicketkeeper-batter played a crucial role in the middle order and provided much-needed stability with the bat. LSG is reportedly prepared to retain Pooran at a hefty price, reflecting his value to the team.
Despite the decision to release KL Rahul, there is speculation that the franchise may bid for him again at the auction, albeit at a more balanced price. Rahul’s experience and leadership could still be of interest to the team if they manage to secure him for a more suitable sum.
The official list of retained players will be announced by October 31, and fans eagerly await confirmation of LSG’s plans for the upcoming season.