The Board of Control for Cricket in India announced on October 25 that Ahmedabad and Lucknow will be the two new franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The RPSG Group, managed by Sanjiv Goenka, has secured the Lucknow franchise for Rs 7,090 crore.
Since its inception in 2007, the Indian Premier League has maintained a stable number of clubs, which currently stands at eight. But this time, out of nowhere, we have more teams than we did until the 14th season of the IPL in 2021. We will have a total of 10 teams starting next year, in 2022. As a result, this is fantastic news for all cricket enthusiasts. What’s more fascinating is that this will undoubtedly provide excellent possibilities for rising talents.
1. Kieron Pollard
Kieron Pollard is a viable option for Lucknow’s team. The West Indian can easily play in the IPL for the next three years, making him a viable choice for the new franchise. Pollard has won championships and, more importantly, he will instill a winning mindset. With the bat and the ball, he is a devastating combination. With a player like Pollard, the Lucknow squad has the potential to be spectacular.
2. Steve Smith
Steve Smith, the former Australian captain, brings a wealth of leadership experience to the table. He has also led IPL clubs such as the Rising Pune Supergiant and Rajasthan Royals, so he knows a thing or two about captaining in such a high-profile competition. Smith is presently a member of the Delhi Capitals. He has the potential to be a fantastic addition to the Lucknow team.
3. David Warner
Sunrisers Hyderabad is almost expected to release David Warner before the 2022 IPL season. One of the teams may be interested in hiring the Australian as their next captain. Although he is now out of form, he only needs a few excellent games to regain his prior form. Yes, choosing an out-of-form overseas player as captain may be a problem, but Warner appears to be the best option among the alternatives.
4. Quinton de Kock
The South African management may have relieved Quinton de Kock of captaincy duties, but that doesn’t rule out the potential of him guiding clubs in franchise cricket throughout the world. The MI wicketkeeper-batsman, an instinctual and brave leader, can thrive as the team’s captain if given the chance. De Kock has played 77 IPL matches and scored 2256 runs in his career.
5. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer is one of the players the Lucknow franchise should consider for captaincy in the IPL 2022 season. Both Iyer and Rishabh Pant want to be the captain of the Delhi Capitals, which may force the team to dismiss Iyer. If this occurs, Lucknow may choose Iyer as their skipper. Iyer is a dependable player with plenty of T20 experience.
