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Following the end of IPL 2022 retentions, the window has now begun for two new franchises - Lucknow and Ahmedabad - to pick 3 players each under the 'special picks' rule. Both the sides have been given a deadline until December 25 and it seems like Lucknow have already finalized the signings of 2 players.
As per sources close to SportsTiger, the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group owned Team Lucknow have secured the deals to sign KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer for IPL 2022. The duo, who were released by their respective franchises, are all set to join Lucknow and the franchise is expected to make an official announcement very soon.
KL Rahul likely to captain Lucknow
KL Rahul, who led Punjab Kings in last few seasons of IPL, is the likely contender to take over the captaincy role at Lucknow. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer could be his deputy in the side which will certainly make a formidable leadership group for the UP-based team going forward.
Apart from the two players, there isn't any information yet on whom the franchise is considering for the remaining 3rd slot in the draft. It is expected to be an overseas player and Lucknow have a few available options in form of Rashid Khan, Trent Boult, David Warner, Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer etc.
However, considering the fact that Rahul and Iyer could be the first two picks, they might find it difficult to negotiate with the players for the final available spot as it will have a lesser salary cap.