As IPL franchises disclosed their list of released players for the 2025 season, KL Rahul’s name stood out among the biggest releases. Known for his versatility as an opener, captain, and wicketkeeper, Rahul brings a wealth of experience, having led two IPL teams. His release by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has sparked considerable interest among teams like Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and even his former team LSG, making him one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming auction.
Rahul’s Take on Captaincy: Prioritizing Team Atmosphere Over Leadership
Despite his extensive leadership experience, Rahul has clarified that he is not fixated on captaining a team. “Captaincy is not my priority,” he said in an interview on Star Sports, emphasizing his preference for a team where he feels “loved, cared, and respected.” Rahul added, “I have always been flexible—whether it’s opening, playing in the middle order, keeping, or fielding. If the franchise values my leadership, I’d be happy to lead, but it’s not a make-or-break decision for me.”
Parting Ways with LSG: Seeking Fresh Opportunities
Reflecting on his departure from LSG, where he served as captain for two seasons, Rahul explained, “I wanted to start fresh, explore new opportunities, and join a team with a lighter atmosphere and more freedom. Sometimes moving on allows you to find a better fit.”
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Key Details of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction
- Auction Dates: November 24-25, coinciding with India’s Test series against Australia.
- Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking the second overseas IPL auction.
Retained Players Overview
This year, 46 players were retained across the 10 franchises. Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals lead with six retentions each, while Punjab Kings retained the fewest, with only two players.
