Justin Langer Eyes IPL Success as Pathway to T20 World Cup for KL Rahul and Co.
Lucknow Super Giants' Head Coach Stresses on Franchise Performance for National Selection
Head coach Justin Langer believes that KL Rahul will automatically be included in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup if he leads the Lucknow Super Giants to their first IPL championship. Langer wants his team's national team prospects to “concentrate” on doing well for the franchise first.
Rahul is still uncertain to make the India T20 team; only a strong IPL with the bat and gloves can secure his place in the team. Rahul is recovering from a quadriceps injury and is not predicted to keep wickets in the early going.
When asked how he would strike a balance between his captain's aspirations and the interests of the team, Langer indicated it wasn't too difficult.
"Everyone receives rewards if the team performs successfully. In a media conference on Wednesday, Langer stated, "If KL can lead LSG to the IPL championship, that means he would have captained well, batted well, and kept wickets well."
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi is another significant contender from LSG for the T20 World Cup, aside from Rahul.
"Players like KL or Bishi (Bishnoi) will learn that their chances of getting called up for the World T20 will rise the more they focus on performing well for LSG."
Due to a flight delay, Rahul is anticipated to report to the club on Wednesday night; nevertheless, the former Australian opener remained silent regarding the star player's start date. "He has been hitting a lot of balls and has complied with all "Return To Play" protocols."
The absence of international signings Mark Wood and David Willey from the competition leaves the Lucknow Super Giants' fast bowling unit without in experience.
The injury-prone pacer Shivam Mavi hasn't participated in a competitive match since August 2023, and Delhi's explosive quick Mayank Yadav missed the entire Ranji Trophy season due to a side strain.
The 2022 IPL's discovery, Mohsin Khan, has struggled with injuries, and Yash Thakur lacks significant playing experience.
"You make a very valid point that there is a great deal of potential, but we lack some experience. The pacers appear robust, in good shape, and ravenous.
"We must effectively manage them throughout the entire tournament, not just at the beginning."
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