The 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin on March 26 with a blockbuster clash between previous year’s finalists Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). This season will also witness two new teams – Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT).
All eyes would be on KL Rahul, who will be leading the Lucknow franchise in the fifteenth edition of the cash-rich league. Notably, the star cricketer was drafted by LSG ahead of the mega auction earlier this year after he parted ways with Punjab Kings (PBKS).
But what could be the challenge for Rahul as a captain and as a player for the newly formed Lucknow team? Well, former India opener Aakash Chopra has shared his views on Rahul’s responsibilities and challenges in the upcoming season.
Chopra mentioned that Rahul was playing slow for PBKS in the previous season, but there will be no excuses for the Bangalore-lad this year.
“Rahul has a clean slate like Hardik Pandya. But Rahul’s big challenge will be that he was playing slow for Punjab Kings because the team was like that. Now the team would have been picked after asking you. Tell how good a captain you are because you don’t have an excuse now, there is no story now,” said Chopra on his YouTube channel.
Chopra further stated that Rahul will have to play freely now, and he shall also enjoy the opportunity to polish his skills with people like Andy Flower (head coach) and former India batter Gautam Gambhir (mentor) around.
“Now play freely. This is now or never, do or die. This is what matters, Gautam Gambhir and Andy Flower will be there, two good brains. You are a good captain, you are a phenomenal player, get the best out of yourself,” added Chopra.
