All-rounder Krunal Pandya has been replaced as vice-captain of the Lucknow Super Giants of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by Nicholas Pooran, an explosive batsman from the West Indies. The announcement was made prior to the IPL 2024 competition, which gets underway on March 22. On March 24, in Jaipur, LSG will play their first IPL 2024 matchup against the Rajasthan Royals.
At the 2023 auction, LSG paid INR 16 crore to acquire Pooran, making it the most expensive wicketkeeper acquisition in IPL history. With 358 runs scored at a strike rate of over 173, the hard-hitting Caribbean star had an outstanding IPL 2023 season. His attacking approach will be a huge asset to Lucknow’s batting order.
Pooran takes over as deputy captain after Krunal, who previously led the team with captain KL Rahul, steps down. Rahul was spotted on LSG’s official social media account presenting Pooran with the vice captain jersey, which had his number 29 on the back.
“KL Rahul (C) and Nicholas Pooran (VC): This season feels special already,” the message stated.
KL Rahul (C)
Nicholas Pooran (VC)This season feels special already 💙 pic.twitter.com/367JTTeSHL
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) February 29, 2024
After demonstrating their abilities and earning a spot in the playoffs the year before, the Lucknow Super Giants lost to the Mumbai Indians in the elimination round. LSG wants to make a statement in the competition and make up for past mistakes as they prepare for their third IPL season.
By adding new vitality to the team and balancing Rahul’s leadership, Pooran’s nomination as vice-captain offers insightful knowledge gained from his time competing on the international stage. Prior to relinquishing his captaincy, Pooran captained the West Indies cricket team in international matches. In the ILT20 2024 season, he also served as the MI Emirates’ captain.