Under-Pressure Rahul Faces Crucial Test as LSG Battles for Survival

KL Rahul's Struggles Under Scrutiny as Lucknow Super Giants Face Crucial Clash

Lucknow Super Giants captain KL Rahul has come under intense scrutiny ahead of their pivotal match against Delhi Capitals on Tuesday. The team's recent loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad has raised concerns about Rahul's leadership and his own batting form.

Rahul's T20 game has been underwhelming this season, with his 460 runs coming at a strike rate of 136. This has fallen short of expectations, especially given his exclusion from India's T20 World Cup squad. Critics have questioned his "lack of intent" and his inability to adapt to the power-hitting trends of modern T20 cricket.

Despite the criticism, LSG management remains steadfast in their support of Rahul. Head coach Justin Langer has compared him to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, while assistant coach Lance Klusener has defended his approach at the top of the order.

Klusener acknowledged that Rahul's role as an anchor has left the rest of the batting lineup with a heavy burden. However, he attributed Rahul's struggles to the team's frequent loss of wickets, which has prevented him from building momentum.

"It's been exceptionally tough for him this IPL because we've kept losing wickets, which hasn't allowed him to kick on," Klusener said. "He feels he is always having to rebuild."

As Rahul prepares for the crucial match against Delhi Capitals, LSG hopes he can rediscover his form and lead the team to victory. The Kotla strip is known for its power-hitting potential, and a sedate Rahul could put LSG at a disadvantage.

Tags: #KL, Rahul#Lucknow, Super, Giants#Delhi, Capitals#IPL