IPL 2022: 5 players who can be targeted by Lucknow franchise ahead of the mega auction


IPL 2022: 5 players who can be targeted by Lucknow franchise ahead of the mega auction

Lucknow Franchise's Potential Buys: KL Rahul and Bhuvneshwar Kumar

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 is set to be a 10-team affair with the arrival of franchises of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. The RPS Goenka group bagged the Lucknow-based team for its highest bid at a whopping amount of ₹7,090 crores. 

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Moreover, the existing eight teams have released their respective lists of retained players ahead of the mega auction. Some of the big names have been released who might grab the eyeballs of the two new sides and here are the top five players who can be targeted by the Lucknow franchise ahead of the mega auction.

KL Rahul

KL Rahul
KL Rahul

There have been several media reports doing rounds on social media claiming that the Lucknow-based franchise has contacted India opening batter, KL Rahul, ahead of the retentions. If this turns out to be true, it will be a vital addition for the upcoming team as the right-hander is one of the most consistent white-ball batters in modern-day cricket.

Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan celebrates a wicket against DC
Rashid Khan

Apart from Rahul, Afghan spinner Rashid Khan was also reportedly contacted by the newly-formed team. The youngster left the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as they weren’t ready to retain him as the first choice player. Khan has been one of the best bowlers in IPL history and will attract huge bucks ahead of the forthcoming edition. 

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Suresh Raina

Suresh Raina
Suresh Raina

Lucknow’s team will surely look to add some local flavour to their side in the form of players belonging to the state of Uttar Pradesh. One of the greatest players to ever play from this North India state, Suresh Raina might turn out to be a useful buy after being released by Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Bhvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Another great player from UP who is actively associated with the Indian team, Bhuvneshwar Kumar can also be bought by the Goenka Group’s franchise. The speedster comes in with tons of experience in the limited-overs format which might turn out to be a valuable addition to his team’s think tank.

Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has also been released by Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Lucknow’s side might grab the services of the Englishman while looking at the scarcity of genuine fast-bowling all-rounders in international cricket. Interestingly, he has previously worked with the same owners during his stint at Rising Pune Supergiants in 2016 and 2017.

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