IPL 2022: Will KL Rahul be retained by Punjab Kings? Owner Ness Wadia opens up

KL Rahul has been sensational for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021, finishing as its highest run-scorer. However, there is no clarity as to if he would be retained by the side, while owner Ness Wadia has commented.

Wicketkeeper-opener and Punjab Kings (PBKS) skipper KL Rahul produced a top show with the bat in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. He finished as the side's highest run-scorer, scoring 626 runs in 13 innings at an imposing average of 62.60 and a strike rate of 138.80, including six half-centuries. Overall, he was the third-highest run-scorer of the season, behind Faf du Plessis (633) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (635).

However, despite his dominating performance with the bat, he has failed to lead to side to glory. The side has been unable to reach the playoffs since he took over the captaincy in IPL 2020, while the team finished in the sixth spot this season. Consequently, there has been no clarity of PBKS would retain him, while co-owner Ness Wadia has opened up on the same.

Speaking to , Wadia said that PBKS does not just possess Rahul, but other players too. He noted that every player has a value, while it is about adjusting and adapting throughout. He reckoned that once a team starts relying on a player too much, it becomes a liability at a point.

He further hailed Rahul's exemplary talent and commended him for his abilities and whatever he had done for the franchise, besides also applauding his consistency. However, he was quick to point out that it is about the entire 11 players in the team, and depending alone on Rahul would be a risky business.

The IPL 2022 would be a ten-team affair, while the teams are also expected to go through the mega-auction, likely to occur in January next year. Also, the details regarding retentions are to be delivered by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). However, Wadia asserted that the franchise is not worried about it and would adjust, adapt and go ahead with it with a smile on the face.