The defeat of Lucknow Super Giants against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday in their IPL 2024 clash didn't sit well with team owner Sanjiv Goenka. Goenka was seen engaged in a heated conversation with skipper KL Rahul on the field.
The IPL 2024 season has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, surprises, and standout performances. However, amidst the thrills of cricketing brilliance, controversies often rear their head, creating ripples across the cricketing world. One such incident unfolded in the aftermath of the clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday, leaving fans in a state of disbelief and players caught in the crossfire.
The showdown between LSG and SRH showcased an extraordinary batting display from Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma, as they propelled SRH to a commanding 10-wicket triumph over LSG. Head's blistering unbeaten 89 off just 30 balls, coupled with Sharma's explosive 75 not out from 28 deliveries, left the LSG bowlers gasping for air as boundaries and sixes flowed freely. This emphatic win not only secured SRH's position in the IPL standings but also catapulted them into playoff contention, firmly establishing their credentials as formidable opponents.
However, it wasn't the stunning performance of SRH that dominated post-match discussions but rather the heated exchange between LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka and captain KL Rahul. In a viral video that circulated across social media platforms, Goenka was seen engaging in a heated conversation with Rahul on the field, visibly displeased with LSG's disappointing defeat.
A player of such calibre KL Rahul needing to bear the wrath of the team owner on field in national media is depressing to say the least !
U guys are disappointed - we get it ! Talk it out in a team meeting behind closed doors fgs !
pic.twitter.com/H0xSbPnQ55
The sight of Goenka's animated chat with Rahul, coupled with exaggerated hand movements, signified his frustration at the loss against SRH. While such interactions are not uncommon in the high-pressure world of professional sports, fans were quick to voice their disapproval, criticizing Goenka for choosing to confront Rahul publicly.
Many fans expressed their belief that Goenka could have waited for the players to return to the dressing room or opted for a more private setting to address any concerns. The public nature of the confrontation left fans feeling uneasy, with some even urging Rahul to consider his future with LSG, citing disrespect from the franchise's owner.
Amidst the backlash faced by LSG and its owner, a surprising narrative emerged as fans began urging KL Rahul to consider a move to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Rahul's association with RCB in the past, coupled with him being a local hero, fueled fans' demand for a potential reunion.Β RCB fans took to social media platforms, extending a warm invitation to Rahul and expressing their desire to see him don the red and gold once again.
Here's a look at how RCB fans asked KL Rahul to join the team following the LSG owner's outburst:
Yes he didn't play well yesterday, but this is pathetic from the owner. KL Rahul represents our country at the highest level and deserves better.
Come to RCB . We love you! πβ€οΈ pic.twitter.com/fHUBCseGB2
Come to RCB fampic.twitter.com/VGK7ISNpNW
β Raj (@whyyysoseriouz)Come to RCB, we will never treat you like this. pic.twitter.com/fXeJBShABp
β leisha (@katyxkohli17)Come to RCB KL Rahul, I assure you that we will never treat you like this π
. pic.twitter.com/qZMU22oCyH
Come to Rcb mr kl rahul
π₯π₯ pic.twitter.com/9iwdujxs41
KL Rahul come to RCB man!
Captaincy β
Bat at any no. β
No pressure β
Very Importantly cool owner π«‘ pic.twitter.com/6aLnv7luRZ
Dear plz come to RCB
We will take care like a King
Come and be our captain
This is so disheartening to see you like this π do the needful πpic.twitter.com/xHuNd0GVKf
Rcb team need a batsman who can bat at any number,or can do captaincy π€
Come to RCB pic.twitter.com/W63imU4XLd
The owner's reaction appears excessively harsh, especially given KL Rahul's status as a national cricket representative. Despite his disappointing performance, he warrants more understanding and support from the management.
Come to RCB . We love you! πβ€οΈ pic.twitter.com/lBLO8G3yTG
Maxi failed every matches
17cr green decent performance
Captain Faf failed to score initial matches
Alzarri Josheph and others π
But RCB owners/manegement never treated their players like this .
KL Rahul come to RCB & be our captain π
pic.twitter.com/Zspq7nFO1A
This is peak unprofessionalism from LSG owners.
No player deserves this on camera!
Come to RCB man, we will treat you betterβ€οΈ pic.twitter.com/mmMLtnTO0L
It's too much disrespect for someone playing for country at the highest level.
Just leave Lsg and come to RCB, take the captaincy, play in middle order and learn how to go hard against opponents & haters from our man. pic.twitter.com/PolyX7lM4B
The team management should never behave a player like this, very shameful act π
Come to RCB pic.twitter.com/RFZcLem8Sj