KL Rahul’s Emotional Return to Lucknow: A Record-Breaking Knock and a Cold Shoulder to Former Franchise Owners

In a highly anticipated fixture of the IPL 2025 season, KL Rahul made a triumphant return to Lucknow, leading the Delhi Capitals to a commanding victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Rahul’s performance not only showcased his exceptional batting skills but also highlighted the complex dynamics between him and his former franchise, LSG.​

A Stellar Performance Under Pressure
Despite not being part of the playing XI when Delhi Capitals hosted LSG in Vizag earlier this season, Rahul’s return to Lucknow on Tuesday was marked by a remarkable innings. Chasing a target of 160, Rahul anchored the innings with an unbeaten 57 off 42 balls, guiding Delhi to victory with 13 balls to spare. This innings was his third half-century of the season and a testament to his adaptability and composure under pressure.​

In addition to his match-winning knock, Rahul achieved a significant milestone by becoming the fastest batter in IPL history to reach 5,000 runs. He accomplished this feat in just 130 innings, surpassing the previous record held by David Warner. This achievement underscores Rahul’s consistency and prowess in the T20 format.​

Tensions with Former Franchise Owners
The post-match interactions added a layer of intrigue to the evening. Sanjiv Goenka, the owner of LSG, and his son Shashwat approached Rahul to congratulate him on his performance. However, Rahul’s response was notably cold; he shook hands with Goenka but declined to engage in conversation and walked away. Shashwat attempted to stop Rahul for a brief interaction, but Rahul maintained his distance and continued walking.​

This incident is the latest in a series of developments following Rahul’s departure from LSG. Prior to the IPL 2025 season, Rahul was released by the franchise, with Goenka stating that the team aimed to retain players who prioritized the team’s success over personal milestones. Rahul responded by expressing his desire to join a team that offered a balanced atmosphere and the freedom to perform without undue pressure. These contrasting perspectives have fueled speculation about the nature of Rahul’s exit from LSG.​

Delhi Capitals’ Ascendancy in IPL 2025
Rahul’s performance is part of a broader resurgence for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. The team has secured six wins in their first eight matches, marking their best start since 2021. Their recent victory over LSG, completing a double over their opponents this season, propelled them to second place in the points table, tied with Gujarat Titans but trailing due to an inferior net run rate. This strong performance positions Delhi as serious contenders for the playoffs.​
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Looking Ahead
KL Rahul’s return to Lucknow was more than just a match-winning performance; it was a statement of resilience and professionalism. While the tensions with his former franchise remain palpable, Rahul’s focus on his game and his team’s success is evident. As the season progresses, both Rahul and the Delhi Capitals will look to build on this momentum, aiming for a deep run in the tournament.​

The IPL 2025 season continues to captivate fans with its blend of on-field excellence and off-field drama, and KL Rahul’s journey is one of the most compelling narratives this year./