In the match 11 of the TATA IPL 2024 the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will take on the Punjab Kings (PBKS). The match is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 30 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Lucknow is led by KL Rahul, while Punjab is captained by Shikhar Dhawan. PBKS is on the fifth position, while LSG stands at the tenth position in the points table.
LSG is favourite to win this encounter against PBKS. Both teams have played 3 matches, with Lucknow winning 2 matches and Punjab winning 1 game so far in the head to head encounters. In this article, we will take a look at the 3 key player battles to watch out for in the match 11 of the TATA IPL 2024 between Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings.
Here are the three key player battles to watch out for during the LSG vs PBKS match:
1) Nicholas Pooran vs Rahul Chahar
Nicholas Pooran vs Rahul Chahar will be another interesting battle that will take place in the middle overs during the LSG and PBKS clash at the Ekana Stadium. Wicketkeeper-batter Pooran and leg-spinner Chahar has played a lot against each other and they know how to tackle each other tactics. Pooran will look to attack Chahar, but on the other hand might get trapped as well.
2) KL Rahul vs Kagiso Rabada
LSG skipper KL Rahul will be facing PBKS speedster Kagiso Rabada in the upcoming match held at the Ekana Stadium. The outstanding bowling of Rabada might challenge the classy batting of Rahul. Therefore, it will be interesting to see that who gets an upper hand in the Lucknow Super Giants vs Punjab Kings clash.
3) Shikhar Dhawan vs Mohsin Khan
PBKS captain Shikhar Dhawan will have to come up with a plan against LSG pacer Mohsin Khan. Since last two matches, Dhawan has seen getting troubled when the ball moves away from him early. And Mohsin has the ability to shape the ball away from the left-handers. Therefore, this battle will be interesting as both knows each other weaknesses and strengths.
The match 4 of the TATA IPL 2024 will witness clash between the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The match is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 24 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Both teams will be looking start their campaign on a positive note and look to grab the 2 points.
LSG is favourite to win this encounter against RR. Both teams have played 3 matches, with Rajasthan winning 2 games and Lucknow winning 1 game so far in the head to head encounters. In this article, we will take a look at the 3 key player battles to watch out for in the match 4 of the TATA IPL 2024 between Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants.
Here are the three key player battles to watch out for during the RR vs LSG match:
1) KL Rahul vs Trent Boult
KL Rahul will aim to get back in form in the IPL 2024, but will be challenged in the form of Trent Boult. Boult has dismissed Rahul twice in their last IPL meetings, on the other hand Rahul also has an impressive strike rate. Therefore, it will be interesting to see that who emerges victorious as the two sides clash at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.
2) Nicholas Pooran vs Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin has a history to trouble left-handers and when Nicholas Pooran will be batting, he will surely come to action, showcasing his expertise. However, Pooran is a mentally strong player and has often played aggressive innings whenever the situation has demanded. When the two will meet, it will be interesting to see who gets an upper hand.
3) Yashasvi Jaiswal vs Marcus Stoinis
Yashasvi Jaiswal is fresh off a stellar Test Series against England and will look to continue his good form in the IPL 2024 as well. Marcus Stoinis, on the other hand is also having a good run in the T20 cricket. Stoinis has dismissed Jaiswal twice in their last IPL encounters, so it will interesting to see who comes out of top in this battle between the two.
KL Rahul is set to take on a new role for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. After undergoing a medical examination trip to London, Rahul is back in India and gearing up for his comeback with LSG. His return follows an injury sustained in his right quadriceps during the first England Test in Hyderabad, which forced him to sit out the remaining four games. However, with the 17th season of IPL on the horizon, the LSG captain is determined to make a strong comeback after his truncated season in 2023.
Recent reports suggest that KL Rahul will be positioned at number 3 in the batting order for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2024. This decision likely stems from discussions between the talented wicketkeeper-batsman and the LSG management. The team already boasts powerful openers like Kyle Mayers and Quinton de Kock, capable of setting the pace of the game within the first six overs.
Additionally, Rahul’s shift to number 3 could serve as a strategic move to enhance his chances of securing a spot in the Indian squad for the upcoming T20I World Cup. With players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma likely to occupy the opening slots for India, Rahul recognizes the importance of adapting to a middle-order role to bolster his World Cup aspirations.
Like senior teammates Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Rahul aims to reclaim his form in T20 cricket, especially after India’s setback in the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final. While Rohit and Kohli have made successful comebacks, Rahul is yet to fully regain his momentum. However, his determination to excel is evident as he strives to secure his position in the World Cup squad.
In the midst of his comeback journey, Rahul faces competition from fellow middle-order contenders like Rinku Singh and Sanju Samson. His selection in the Playing XI could hinge on whether he is considered solely as a batter or as a wicketkeeper-batsman. While challenging, the latter role could offer Rahul greater opportunities, especially with the uncertainty surrounding India’s designated wicketkeeper-batsman since Rishabh Pant’s absence.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have announced West Indies’ wicketkeeper-batter Nicholas Pooran as their vice-captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The franchise made the announcement on social media, with a photo of skipper KL Rahul handing Pooran the jersey for the new season with ‘(VC)’ written on it.
Pooran’s recent success as a captain was highlighted, particularly his leadership role in leading MI Emirates to their maiden title win in the ILT20 2024 final. He was exceptional in the final, scoring an unbeaten 27-ball 57 with six sixes. Pooran was the second-highest run-scorer in the league with 354 runs from 10 innings at an average of 50.57, including a couple of half-centuries, and an impressive strike rate of 170.19.
In IPL 2023, Pooran was bought by LSG for a whopping INR 16 crore after a bidding war with Delhi Capitals (DC). He scored 358 runs from 15 games at an average of 29.83, including two half-centuries, with a strike rate of 172.95. However, he faced a setback in the eliminator against Mumbai Indians (MI) as he was dismissed for a golden duck.
Interestingly, when KL Rahul suffered a groin injury during a match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Krunal Pandya was named the captain for the rest of the season. Under his captaincy, LSG won three and lost two matches, with one ending in no result. The reason why Krunal was not named vice-captain for IPL 2024 is unclear.
LSG’s captaincy headache continues as KL Rahul is yet to regain full fitness after complaining of pain in his right quadriceps following the first Test against England in Hyderabad. He has been ruled out for the final Test in Dharamsala as well.
LSG will commence their IPL 2024 campaign against Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur on March 24. Their first home game is against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Lucknow, followed by a clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Bengaluru.
In the last two seasons, LSG have managed to qualify for the playoffs but are yet to reach a final. The appointment of Nicholas Pooran as vice-captain adds a new dimension to their leadership group, and fans will be eager to see how he contributes to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
As the cricketing world gears up for the fourth Test match between India and England in Ranchi starting from February 23, anticipation is high for what promises to be another intriguing clash in this enthralling series. With India holding a 2-1 lead and eyeing to seal the series, several key developments have emerged regarding the composition of India’s playing XI for the upcoming encounter.
KL Rahul Set to Return
One of the significant updates ahead of the Ranchi Test is the return of KL Rahul to the Indian squad. Rahul, who missed the second and third Tests due to a quadriceps strain, is poised to make a comeback. Despite being named in the squad for the last three Tests, Rahul was unable to participate in the Rajkot Test due to incomplete recovery from his injury setback. However, with his fitness now at 90 percent, the team management deems him fit enough to contribute, providing a substantial boost to India’s middle-order batting lineup.
Bumrah Likely To Be Rested
In a strategic move aimed at managing workload and ensuring player fitness, premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be rested for the fourth Test. Bumrah, who has been the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing series with 17 wickets in three matches, played a pivotal role in India’s recent triumph in Rajkot. However, with an eye on the future and a busy cricketing calendar ahead, the team management has opted to give him some much-needed rest. This decision opens up opportunities for other bowlers to step up and fill the void left by Bumrah’s absence.
In light of Bumrah’s absence and the conditions expected in Ranchi, the inclusion of Axar Patel as an additional spinner is on the cards. Axar Patel’s prowess with the ball, coupled with his ability to contribute with the bat, makes him a valuable asset to the team, especially on pitches favoring spin bowling. Alongside seasoned campaigners like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin, Axar Patel could play a crucial role in India’s bowling strategy for the Ranchi Test.
Here is India’s predicted playing XI for the fourth Test against England at Ranchi:
The India vs England series is turning out to be an exciting one, much to the delight of the fans of Test cricket. Currently, the series is tied at 1-1. England won the first Test by 28 runs, but India came back strongly by winning the second Test by 106 runs. The third Test can decide which way the series will go and both the teams will be eager to showcase their best gameplay.
The BCCI has announced a 17-member squad for the remaining three Test matches against England. The third Test between India and England will be played at Saurashtra Cricket Stadium in Rajkot. The fourth and fifth matches are scheduled to be played in Ranchi and Dharamshala. Shreyas Iyer will miss the last three matches of the series.
Virat Kohli has been not included in the final three matches against England due to personal reasons. Virat Kohli was also not available for the first two matches. Team India might make a few changes in their playing 11 for the third test match in Rajkot. In this article, we will take a look at the predicted playing 11 of the Indian team for 3rd Test against England in Rajkot.
Here’s the Predicted Playing XI of the Indian Team for the Third Test:
Shubman Gill smashed a much-needed hundred in the 2nd innings of Vizag Test. KL Rahul is likely to be fit for the Rajkot Test. In case Rahul isn’t fit, debutant Rajat Patidar will likely to get another chance to prove him at this level. Shreyas Iyer has been ruled out of the series and it is much likely possible that Sarfaraz Khan will make his debut.
Ravindra Jadeja will go through some fitness tests and if he plays, he is likely to replace Axar Patel at No. 6. Kuldeep’s performance in the last Test and his different skills might be enough for him to play, but, if the pitch allows to play an extra batter, then Washington Sundar might replace him, only if Axar is not in the playing 11.
Wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat will be under immense pressure and it is possible that Dhruv Jurel will replace him. Mohammed Siraj is likely to make his comeback in the Indian playing XI replacing Mukesh Kumar. Mohammed Siraj will be playing alongside Jasprit Bumrah in the third test at Saurashtra Cricket Stadium in Rajkot.
India’s Squad for the Last Three Tests vs England
Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep
Rajat Patidar And Kuldeep Yadav Could Be Likely Replacements In India’s Playing 11 For KL Rahul And Ravindra Jadeja. Team India has added Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar to the squad for the second Test against England in Vizag. The second Test match is scheduled to start on 2nd February 2024 in Vizag. India have lost the first Test match by 28 runs, and will now look to bounce back in the upcoming matches.
India’s Playing 11 for the 2nd Test vs England
The anticipated playing 11 for the second Test against England showcases changes necessitated by the unfortunate injuries. Rajat Patidar, who replaced Virat Kohli in the squad ahead of the first Test, is likely to step in for KL Rahul, while Kuldeep Yadav, the spinner waiting for an opportunity, is expected to fill the void left by Ravindra Jadeja.
Rajat Patidar, selected as Kohli’s replacement, signifies the team management’s vision of him as a key player, particularly in the crucial number four position. Patidar’s recent performances, including consecutive centuries against the England Lions in practice games, highlight his form and capability. His impressive record in domestic cricket, amassing 4000 runs with an average of 45.97 in 55 matches, solidifies his case for a spot in the Test playing 11. With no fitness concerns, Patidar emerges as the natural choice to fill Rahul’s shoes.
Why Kuldeep for Jadeja?
The absence of Jadeja opens the door for Kuldeep Yadav, a talented chinaman spinner, to inject variety into the bowling attack. Kuldeep’s ability to bring a different dimension compared to orthodox left-arm spinners like Sourabh Kumar and Axar Patel adds strategic value. His last Test appearance against Bangladesh in 2022 saw him claim eight wickets, showcasing his prowess. While Sourabh impressed with a five-wicket haul against the England Lions, Kuldeep’s proven talent, both with the ball and the bat, earns him a deserving chance.
Sarfaraz’s Opportunity?
Sarfaraz Khan, having displayed stellar performances in First-Class cricket with a remarkable average of 69, presents a compelling case for inclusion. His scores of 96 and 161 against the England Lions underscore his current form. With Shubman Gill facing a dip in form and struggling to cross the 50-run mark in his last 10 Test innings, Sarfaraz could challenge for a spot in the playing 11. A potential adjustment may see Patidar moving to number three, allowing Sarfaraz to bat at four, his preferred position.
In a significant setback for Team India, star batter KL Rahul and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have been ruled out of the second Test against England, scheduled to begin on Friday in Vizag. The duo’s absence comes after India found themselves trailing 0-1 in the ongoing five-match series, following a 28-run defeat in the series opener in Hyderabad.
Ravindra Jadeja sustained a hamstring injury during the fourth day of the first Test in Hyderabad, while KL Rahul complained of a right quadriceps pain. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a statement confirming their unavailability for the upcoming Test.
“Mr. Ravindra Jadeja and Mr. KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second IDFC First Bank Test against England in Vizag, starting February 02, 2024. Jadeja sustained a hamstring injury during play on Day 4 of the first Test in Hyderabad while Rahul complained of a right quadriceps pain. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring the progress of the duo,” stated the BCCI release.
Also Read: India Faces Major Setback; Star Player Likely to Miss 2nd Test against England Due to Hamstring Injury
In response to these injuries, the Men’s Selection Committee has made additions to the squad, including Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar. The inclusion of these players aims to strengthen the team, which is currently trailing in the series with three more games to play after the Vizag Test.
“Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar have been added to India’s squad,” the BCCI statement added.
The Men's Selection Committee have added Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar and Washington Sundar to India's squad.#INDvENGhttps://t.co/xgxI8NsxpV
Sarfaraz Khan and Washington Sundar were part of the India A squad for a three-match Test series against England Lions. Sarfaraz impressed with a brilliant knock of 161, contributing to India A’s victory over England Lions by an innings and 16 runs in the second Test in Ahmedabad. Washington Sundar showcased his all-round skills, taking two wickets and scoring a half-century in the same match.
The BCCI also clarified that pacer Avesh Khan will continue to travel with his Ranji Trophy team, Madhya Pradesh, and will join the Test squad if required. As India seeks to bounce back in the series, the absence of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja adds a layer of challenge for the team in the upcoming Test battles against England.
India’s updated Squad for 2nd Test vs England: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.
KL Rahul is a popular Indian wicketkeeper batter who is expected to be a future leader in Indian cricket. He is among the most technically sound players of the young generation, and Indian cricket will definitely lean on him in the future. KL Rahul recently married the Bollywood actress Athiya Shetty, who is the daughter of the popular Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty. Here we have covered everything you need to know about KL Rahul wife, Athiya Shetty in detail.
Everything about KL Rahul Wife- Athiya Shetty
1- KL Rahul wife, Athiya Shetty was born on November 5, 1992, in Bombay (now Mumbai). She is the daughter of renowned actor Suniel Shetty and director Mana Shetty. Athiya’s father belongs to the Tulu-speaking Bunt community, while her mother comes from a mixed background, with her maternal side being Punjabi Hindu and her paternal side being Gujarati Muslim. Athiya also has a younger brother named Ahan Shetty, who ventured into the world of acting and made his debut in the film “Tadap” in 2021.
2- Athiya Shetty, the wife of KL Rahul began her education at the Cathedral and John Connon School before transferring to the American School of Bombay. During her time at these schools, she actively participated in school plays, sharing the stage with fellow actors Shraddha Kapoor and Tiger Shroff. Her passion for acting led her to make a significant move to New York City, where she pursued her dream of a film career by enrolling at the New York Film Academy.
3- Athiya Shetty, the wife of KL Rahul, made her acting debut in 2015 in the romantic action film “Hero,” which was directed by Nikhil Advani. This movie was a remake of the 1983 classic of the same name produced by Subhash Ghai, who also co-produced the remake. Salman Khan was another co-producer, and the film’s script was a collaborative effort between Advani and Umesh Bist. “Hero” garnered a total revenue of ₹34.82 crore (approximately US$4.4 million).
4- Athiya Shetty’s upcoming project is her role in the biopic film “Hope Solo,” which is based on the life of footballer Afshan Ashiq. In this film, Athiya will portray the titular character, Afshan Ashiq.
5- Athiya Shetty married her long-time partner, Indian cricketer KL Rahul, on 23 January 2023 after dating for more than 3 years.
Athiya Shetty, KL Rahul Wife Career
Athiya Shetty marked her entry into acting in 2015 with the romantic action film “Hero,” directed by Nikhil Advani. A remake of Subhash Ghai’s classic, the film, produced by Salman Khan, earned ₹34.82 crore (US$4.4 million). Athiya Shetty, the wife of KL Rahul portrayed the role of Radha Mathur, an aspiring dancer from Mumbai, in love with her kidnapper Sooraj (Sooraj Pancholi). Despite mixed reviews for her acting skills, she received a Filmfare award nomination for Best Female Debut.
Post her debut, Athiya Shetty, KL Rahul wife became the face of Maybelline New York’s Indian franchise and graced the covers of high-profile magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Verve, and Harper’s Bazaar. After a brief hiatus, she appeared in Anees Bazmee’s romantic comedy “Mubarakan” (2017), a box office hit with earnings of 93.59 crores. In the film, she portrayed Binkle Sandhu, a Punjabi girl in a love triangle.
In 2018, KL Rahul wife, Athiya Shetty featured in the song “Tere Naal Nachna” for the film “Nawabzaade.” Subsequently, she took on the role of Anita “Ani” Awasthi in the comedy drama “Motichoor Chaknachoor” (2019) opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui, receiving mixed reviews.
Looking ahead, Athiya Shetty, the wife of KL Rahul is set to star in the biopic film “Hope Solo,” portraying the title role as footballer Afshan Ashiq.
KL Rahul Wife FAQs
1- Who is the wife of KL Rahul?
Indian actress, Athiya Shetty is the wife of KL Rahul.
2- What is the age of Athiya Shetty?
Athiya Shetty was born on 5 November 2022 and is currently 31 years old.
Kannur Lokesh Rahul, born on April 18, 1992, is a prominent Indian international cricketer known for his role as a right-handed Wicketkeeper-Batsman. In domestic cricket, he represents Karnataka and serves as the captain for the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League. Rahul has also held the position of vice-captain for the Indian Cricket Team in the past. This article covers everything about KL Rahul family including his father, mother and sister.
His preferred position in Test and T20I formats is typically as an opener, while in ODIs, he often plays in the middle order. Rahul is a regular wicketkeeper in the shorter formats of the game, both at the international and domestic levels. Notably, he was part of the Indian team that secured victory in the 2018 and 2023 Asia Cup tournaments.
Rahul made his international debut in 2014 during the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in Melbourne. Two years later, he made his One-Day International debut in 2016 against Zimbabwe, followed by his T20I debut on the same tour.
One of his remarkable achievements is being the first Indian cricketer to score an ODI century on his debut. Furthermore, Rahul holds the distinction of being the fastest batsman to achieve an International century across all three formats, accomplishing this remarkable feat in just 20 innings.
KL Rahul Family- Father, Mother and Wife
1- KL Rahul was born on April 18, 1992, in Bangalore to parents K. N. Lokesh and Rajeshwari. His father, Lokesh, is a professor and a former director at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK) in Mangalore. His mother, Rajeshwari, is a professor at Mangalore University.
2- Interestingly, Lokesh, a fan of cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, originally intended to name his son after Gavaskar’s son. However, he made a mistake and ended up naming his son Rahul instead of Rohan Gavaskar.
3- KL Rahul shares a strong bond with his mother, Rajeshwari, who had a distinguished career as a professor at Mangalore University. In a heartfelt tweet, he affectionately referred to her as a “Super Mom.” Despite Rahul’s significant success as a cricketer on the national stage, his mother continues to express a longing for him to possess an engineering certificate.
4- Rahul’s formative years were spent in Mangalore, where he attended NITK English Medium School for his high school education and St. Aloysius College for his pre-university studies.
5- His cricket journey began at the age of 10 when he started training in the sport. By the time he was 12, he was actively participating in matches, representing both the Bangalore United Cricket Club and his local club in Mangalore.
6- At the age of 18, Rahul made a significant move to Bangalore to enroll at Jain University, where he could simultaneously focus on his academic pursuits and his cricketing career.
7- On January 23, 2023, Rahul tied the knot with his longtime partner, Indian actress Athiya Shetty, who is the daughter of the renowned actor Suniel Shetty. The couple had been in a relationship for more than three years before getting married.
8- KL Rahul has one younger sister named Bhavna. He has posted photos with her on Rakshabandhan. In one of his tweets, Rahul wrote his sister had mastered the art of being annoying, protective and loving all at once.
KL Rahul International Career Since 2021
In September 2021, KL Rahul was selected for India’s squad in the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, emerging as the highest run-scorer for India with 194 runs, including three consecutive fifties. Following Virat Kohli’s resignation as T20i captain, Rahul became the Vice-captain, and later, he was appointed ODI vice-captain as well.
In December 2021, Rahul assumed the role of test vice-captain and ODI captain for India’s series against South Africa due to injuries to regular captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He excelled in the first test, scoring 123 in the first innings and 23 in the second, earning the Man of the Match award.
In January 2022, Rahul captained the Indian test team for the first time but couldn’t secure victory. He also made his ODI captaincy debut in the series against South Africa, which India lost 3–0. In February 2022, Rahul reached 6000 runs in international cricket during an ODI against the West Indies but sustained a hamstring strain.
Despite a groin injury, Rahul returned to captain India in the Zimbabwe tour after a sports hernia surgery. He led the team in the 2022 Asia Cup, and after being removed from the Test vice-captaincy in February 2023, he made a strong comeback with an unbeaten century in the Asia Cup against Pakistan.
Named captain for the 2023 Cricket World Cup, Rahul showcased exceptional performances, recording the fastest century by an Indian in the tournament. In the final against Australia, he top-scored in India’s first innings with 66 runs. Later in November 2023, Rahul captained India in the ODI series against South Africa, securing a 2-1 victory.
In December 2023, Rahul scored his 8th test century in challenging conditions against South Africa, but India lost the match. Overall, Rahul’s leadership and batting prowess have marked him as a significant contributor to the Indian cricket team.
