Gamble Paid Off! Sanjeev Goenka's Idea To Replace KL Rahul With Mitchell Marsh Pays Dividends

LSG masterstroke by releasing KL [Source: AP Photo]

Prior to the IPL mega auction, the Lucknow Super Giants made a harsh decision to release their star player and captain, KL Rahul. For many, it was a gamble and a wrong decision as KL had time and again given a steady start. However, when he was replaced with Mitch Marsh as the LSG opener, the baffling decision was criticised.

But the gamble to make this bold call ultimately paid dividend to LSG owner, Sanjiv Goenka as Marsh's signing has proven to be a masterstroke and releasing KL Rahul was the best decision and here's why.

Striking difference between KL and Marsh's strike-rate

While KL Rahul is a supreme player and one of the best IPL players of all-time, his strike-rate, especially during his stint with Lucknow Super Giants always came under scrutiny. While he churned out runs at will, his inability to increase the tempo was always questioned and it costed LSG several games.

(KL Rahul's strike-rate for LSG)

As the numbers suggests, his best season was the 2024 one, where he struck at 136.13. However, if we look at the three seasons combined, the numbers tell that KL had an underwhelming stint with the LSG franchise. This was the main reason why Sanjiv Goenka released him.

Marsh power gives wings to LSG

Marsh's inclusion in LSG was questioned, but he proved his critics wrong. This season, he got an opportunity to open the innings for LSG and he has been going hammer and tongs. This season, Marsh's strike-rate has been 158.18, more than what KL had for LSG in any of the three seasons. Time and again, Marsh has given flying starts and as a result, LSG have relied less on their middle order.

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