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With the IPL 2021 almost coming towards an end, the buzz and excitement around the next season of the tournament has already begun with franchises starting to ponder about the players they will retain going into the mega auction. With two new teams set to join the league, it had been reported earlier that the present eight sides might be allowed to retain a maximum of 3 players from their current roster.
It is going to be quite a tricky call for all the franchises to decided the names of those players, around whom they would want to build their side for the next cycle of IPL. However, there is a possibility that the current orange-cap holder and captain of Punjab Kings - KL Rahul - might not be retained by his franchise.
Has Rahul-Punjab partnership finally come to an end?
In a heartbreaking development, it looks like the partnership between KL Rahul and Punjab Kings might be finally coming towards an end. According to Cricbuzz, the 29-year-old may not feature for the franchise next year and is likely to be up for grabs in the auction. The report also mentions that the wicketkeeper batsman has already been approached by few franchises.
While there has not been an official statement from either the player or franchise, it looks quite possible because KL Rahul might be wanting to look for a different challenge. Despite trying his level best at Punjab Kings, he has been left a frustrating figure as the side has failed to qualify for playoffs under his leadership.
The right-handed batsman has had astonishing last couple of seasons on a personal level, having hit 670 runs and 626 runs in 2020 and 2021 season respectively. However, PBKS have only managed to finish 6th on both occasions after losing out various matches from winning positions. This could probably be one of the reasons the player might be looking for a change of air in the tournament.
Which franchise could sign Rahul if he is available?
In case KL Rahul confirms his availability in the mega auctions, there will be many franchises who would be looking to get him on board as their next captain. While the two new teams will definitely be in the fray, top sides like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Chennai Super Kings might also be keeping a keen eye on him as they look to enter a new era in IPL.