Ahmedabad, meanwhile, confirm that Hardik Pandya will captain their team
The IPL allowed both new teams to pick three players (who were not already retained by their franchises) each ahead of the auction, which is scheduled on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru.
Lucknow mentor Gambhir on picking Rahul: ‘What’s better than someone who gives you three things?’
Talking to the IPL’s host broadcaster Star Sports, Goenka said that the three players his franchise picked would not only “propel” the team but also “lay the foundation” for the future. “KL is not only an outstanding batsman but also a great wicketkeeper,” Goenka said. “Marcus is a great finisher, a good bowler and a phenomenal fielder. Ravi brings a unique dimension to the spin department and is an exceptional fielder. We want players to be here for 3-4-5-6-7-8 years.”
Goenka also confirmed that Rahul will captain Lucknow. “Yes KL will be the captain. I have been very impressed with, not only his batting and wicketkeeping, but also his leadership skills. He is evolving, growing, maturing as a leader. He is somebody I would’ve wanted to lead the team and I do believe that given the right atmosphere, environment, he will emerge as a remarkable leader.”
Bishnoi was the highest-wicket taker in the 2020 Under-19 World Cup and was then picked by Punjab Kings, where he impressed. Gambhir described the 21-year-old legspinner as one of the “most exciting prospects” in the IPL. “He is a complete wicket-taking option.”
Ahmedabad mentor Kirsten on Pandya as captain: ‘Motivated to show what he’s capable of as a leader’
It will be the first time Kirsten works with Rashid, though, who is headed over from Sunrirsers Hyderabad, and he’s looking forward to it. “Rashid has proven is value all around the world,” Kirsten said. “I haven’t yet worked with him, but I’ve met him a few times. Watching him on the field, he is a competitive young man and wants to do well for the franchises he plays in.”
Kirsten termed Gill, who was released by Knight Riders, a “matchwinner”. “Gill is a fantastic player who, at the end of the day, in my view, should be playing for India. He’s on the verge of that and plays with great flair and instinct for the game. He can be a match-winner on his own.”