The departure of KL Rahul from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the 2025 IPL auction has been one of the most-discussed events in recent cricketing circles. Amid speculations of a strained relationship, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka has expressed his admiration for the former captain, calling him “family” despite the unceremonious split.
Goenka’s Affection for Rahul
Speaking on the TRS podcast, Goenka lavished praise on Rahul, who led LSG for three seasons. “KL Rahul has always been family for me, and he will remain that way. He showed excellent results during his captaincy stint, and I genuinely wish him success in all his future endeavors,” said Goenka.
The LSG owner also highlighted Rahul’s personality, calling him a “shareef insaan” (an honest and decent person). “He is talented, honest, and a very good human being. I hope he continues to showcase his skills on the global stage. My best wishes are always with him,” he added.
The End of Rahul’s LSG Journey
Rahul’s journey with LSG came to an end after the franchise decided not to retain him for the 2025 season. The wicketkeeper-batter later joined Delhi Capitals for a staggering INR 14 crore in the IPL auction. While Rahul refrained from delving into specifics, he admitted that a fresh start was necessary for him.
“The decision was already made, and I wanted to explore new opportunities,” Rahul told Star Sports. “I was looking for a lighter, more balanced atmosphere where I could play with freedom. The IPL is already a high-pressure tournament, and I wanted to make the most of my abilities in a new environment.”
Speculation About a Rift
Rumors of a fallout between Goenka and Rahul gained traction after an animated exchange between the two was caught on camera during the 2024 IPL season. The incident occurred after LSG suffered a crushing ten-wicket defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Goenka was seen gesturing animatedly at Rahul, who stood quietly during the conversation.
Following the announcement of retentions, Goenka further fueled speculation by stating that the team retained players who prioritized collective success over personal ambitions. “We wanted to retain players with a team-first mindset, those who put collective goals above personal aspirations,” Goenka said in a video statement.
A Mutual Decision
Despite the whispers of a fallout, both parties appear to have parted ways on relatively amicable terms. While LSG aims to rebuild with a focus on their core group, Rahul is looking forward to his new chapter with Delhi Capitals.
As the IPL draws closer, all eyes will be on Rahul to see how he performs in his new environment and whether he can replicate his past successes. Meanwhile, Goenka’s heartfelt comments serve as a reminder of the mutual respect that remains between them.
