KL Rahul’s struggles continued in IPL 2024 as his Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) team suffered a sixth consecutive defeat, this time against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). The one-sided affair saw SRH chase down LSG’s total of 165/4 with ease, reaching 167/0 in just 9.4 overs.
Rahul’s poor form has been a major concern for LSG, who have now lost six out of their seven matches this season. The wicketkeeper-batter has managed only 460 runs in 12 matches at a strike rate of 136.09, with three half-centuries.
Prior to IPL 2024, Rahul’s T20 World Cup selection was already hanging in doubt due to fitness issues. His struggles in the IPL have only further jeopardized his chances of making the Indian squad for the ICC event.
After the match, West Indies legend Ian Bishop suggested that Rahul needs to ‘play freely’ and not be afraid to make mistakes. Mitchell McClenaghan, meanwhile, believes that Rahul needs to upgrade his game if he wants to continue his India career.
It remains to be seen whether Rahul can turn things around in the remaining matches of IPL 2024 and force his way back into India’s T20 World Cup squad. However, his recent performances have been a major disappointment, and he will need to show a significant improvement if he wants to keep his place in the national team.
