IPL 2023: Lucknow made this batsman replacement for KL Rahul, who has scored a triple century in international cricket

Lucknow Super Giants suffered a major blow in IPL 2023 when captain KL Rahul was ruled out of the rest of the season due to injury. He suffered the injury while fielding in the match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. After this, he did not even play against Chennai Super Kings. In place of Rahul, Lucknow has added experienced batsman Karun Nair to his team. Karun has scored a triple-century in international cricket.

Karun Nair has been added to his team by the franchise for Rs 50 lakh. He has played six Tests and two ODIs for India. He has 374 runs in Tests at an average of 62.33 and 46 runs in ODIs at an average of 23. His best score on Test is 303 not out. He played this innings against England at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. India won the match by an innings and 75 runs. Apart from this, Karun has also scored 1496 runs in 76 IPL matches at an average of 23.75 and a strike rate of 127.75.

Karun Nair has also played for these franchises

Karun has previously played for franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders. The Lucknow team can take advantage of his experience. Earlier, Rahul himself had announced on Friday that apart from the rest of the IPL matches, he would not be seen playing in the final of the World Test Championship as well. The WTC final will be played between India and Australia at the Oval in London from June 7.

Rahul was hurt during fielding

At the same time, Rahul was hurt during fielding in the match against Bangalore. In the second over of the match, Rahul was injured in his right thigh while running toward the boundary on the cover drive of Faf Duplessis off Marcus Stoinis. He was seen in pain while running and fell on the ground near the boundary. He lay down on the ground and was seen moaning in pain. After this, the physio was called to the field. He also sprinkled painkiller spray, but it did not work. He caught them and took them out of the ground.

Krunal Pandya can captain Lucknow

During the run chase, Rahul did not come for the opening, but in the end, he reached the crease limping. Rahul played three balls, but could not take the run. This shows that his injury is serious. Rahul was in good touch in IPL 2023. He scored 274 runs in nine innings for Lucknow Supergiants at an average of 34.25 and a strike rate of 113.22. In the absence of Rahul, Krunal Pandya can take charge of the team. He also captained in the match against Bangalore.

Rahul wrote on Instagram, “After discussion with the medical team, it has been concluded that I will be undergoing thigh surgery soon. My focus will be on my rehabilitation and recovery in the coming weeks. It's a tough decision, but I know it's the right thing to do to be right. As the captain of the team, it pains me not to be there at this crucial time, but I am sure that the teammates will give their best as always. I will watch every match of the team and encourage them. Also disappointed that I will not be at The Oval with Team India next month. I will do everything to get back on the team and play for my country. This has always been my priority.

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