Aakash Chopra fires 'last match of IPL' warning to Devdutt Padikkal ahead of LSG vs DC clash

Aakash Chopra said that the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) could drop Devdutt Padikkal if he fails to perform in their upcoming match in the IPL 2024. Aakash Chopra said that Deepak Hooda could take Devdutt Padikkal's place in the playing XI for the Lucknow Super Giants.

LSG acquired Padikkal from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) during the off-season to bolster their lineup. However, his performance has been disappointing, failing to cross the double-digit mark in four innings. He has scored 22 runs at a dismal average of 5.50 and a strike rate of 81.48.

Devdutt Padikkal Doesn't Have Form - Aakash Chopra

In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra named KL Rahul as a crucial player for LSG in the upcoming match. He stated that Devdutt Padikkal's position might be at risk due to his poor form, suggesting that Deepak Hooda could potentially replace him.

"The new ball moves here. The new ball is a threat. So I am thinking - let's still go with KL Rahul. If the new ball is a threat, Quinton de Kock will try to hit, and Devdutt Padikkal does not have form at No. 3. This "Might be the last match of the season for Devdutt Padikkal" - Aakash Chopra delivers blunt verdict if he doesn't score runs," Chopra said.

"If he scores runs, very well done, I love him, but if he doesn't, Deepak Hooda might get a place instead on him. Khaleel Ahmed will be there against left-handers. So I am going towards a right-hander who will play slightly cautiously," he added.

The KL Rahul-led team began the tournament with a loss against the Rajasthan Royals (RR). However, the Lucknow-based team reversed their fortunes with back-to-back wins in the next three games. They currently occupy third place in the standings with 6 points to their tally.

Rahul has amassed 126 runs across four innings at a decent average of 31.50 and a strike rate of 128.57, which is lower than expected. The opening batter captained in three matches but served as an impact player in one. Nicholas Pooran led the team to victory in Rahul's absence.

They Must Be Doing Something Right - Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra emphasized that KL Rahul would face scrutiny both as a batter and as a leader for LSG. He noted that the team's bowling performance might not be exceptional while defending.

"So KL Rahul the batter and again KL Rahul the captain because if we see their bowling sheet, it doesn't look that extraordinary. However, if they are still defending, they must be doing something right and captaincy must also have a role in that. So I am saying KL Rahul will be the first player in focus," Chopra further stated.

LSG will face the Delhi Capitals (DC) in their next match at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Friday, April 12. Nicholas Pooran is the leading run scorer for the LSG team, amassing 178 runs at an impressive average of 178.00 and a strike rate of 169.52. Quinton de Kock follows closely, having scored 145 runs.

The Delhi team is currently at the bottom of the 10-team table, having won just one match out of five games in the ongoing tournament.

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