Lucknow franchise shows interest in Marcus Stoinis and Kagiso Rabada - Reports

Ahead of the IPL Mega Auction 2022, two new teams, namely Ahmedabad and Lucknow have joined the competition. To balance the squads, the BCCI has decided to allow the two new franchises to sign three players each in a small draft before the auction. 

The two new franchises have permission to sign any player from the list of cricketers released by the eight existing teams and the ones who do not have an IPL contract as of now. According to reports, Lucknow have approached Indian team’s white-ball vice-captain KL Rahul for the captaincy role. 

Previously it was reported that Lucknow have approached Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan also, but it seems the former Sunrisers Hyderabad spinner is headed to the Ahmedabad-based IPL franchise. 

Talking about Lucknow, the franchise is now looking at three other players for the two vacant spots. The three names are former Punjab Kings spinner Ravi Bishnoi, former IPL Purple Cap winner Kagiso Rabada and former Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder Marcus Stoinis. A report in Cricbuzz states:

“It is well known that KL Rahul will be captain for the Lucknow side. It is understood that they are looking at players like Ravi Bishnoi, Kagiso Rabada and Marcus Stoinis among others. The second and third players have not yet been finalised and one franchise official has said there may be a surprise.”

Ravi Bishnoi played under KL Rahul’s captaincy for Punjab Kings 

While Ravi Bishnoi’s name may raise a few eyebrows, it should not be that surprising because the leg-spinner played under KL Rahul’s leadership for the Punjab Kings franchise. 

Rahul would have been impressed with the youngster’s performance, and since he could be a long-term asset for the franchise, Lucknow could well consider roping in Bishnoi before the IPL 2022 Mega Auction. It will be interesting to see what happens next.