KL Rahul’s milestone innings against former franchise LSG was overshadowed by a frosty reunion with Sanjiv Goenka, sparking reactions and rumours across cricket circles.
KL Rahul’s return to the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow wasn’t just about the game—it was a story layered with drama, emotion, and redemption. Just a year ago, Rahul was the captain and face of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), leading the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise with poise. Fast forward to IPL 2025, and Rahul is now donning the Delhi Capitals jersey, taking on the very team he once led. But the moment that stole the spotlight wasn’t his match-winning 57*, or even his record-breaking achievement as the fastest batter to 5000 IPL runs—it was his awkward post-match interaction with Goenka that had everyone talking.
The tension was palpable when Rahul walked over to shake hands with Goenka after Delhi’s comfortable eight-wicket win over LSG. The handshake was brief, distant, and marked by visible discomfort. Goenka appeared to say something—perhaps kind, perhaps reconciliatory—but Rahul barely acknowledged it, keeping his gaze elsewhere and moving on swiftly.
The incident seemed to validate long-standing rumours that the public fallout in IPL 2024 between the two wasn’t just media exaggeration. In a now-infamous clip that went viral last year, Goenka was seen animatedly confronting Rahul after LSG’s heavy loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad—a moment many believe led to Rahul’s decision to leave the franchise. While Rahul publicly cited his desire for a “relaxed dressing room” and more personal freedom, the subtext has always hinted at deeper cracks behind the scenes.
The online cricket community lit up after the handshake, with Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari subtly weighing in. His cryptic social media post, simply reading “Cold hand-shake”, was interpreted by fans as a direct reference to the moment, further fueling speculation that the tension still runs deep.
Yet, Goenka seems intent on publicly taking the high road. Speaking on the TRS podcast, he poured praise on Rahul, calling him a “shareef insaan” (a good person) and someone who will always be “family.” He added, “He is very honest, very talented. My best wishes are always with him.”
These statements, while gracious on the surface, are being viewed with skepticism by fans and analysts alike, given the visibly strained body language during the handshake. Was it a genuine gesture of goodwill? Or an attempt at PR repair?
For Rahul, the night was still one to cherish professionally. His 57* off 44 balls wasn’t his flashiest knock, but it was composed and significant. With that innings, he reached 5000 IPL runs in just 130 innings—faster than legends like David Warner, Virat Kohli, and AB de Villiers. It’s a milestone that cements Rahul’s legacy as one of the most consistent and elegant batters in the league’s history.
The irony? He reached the landmark while playing against the franchise that let him go.
The emotional undercurrents of this IPL 2025 clash between DC and LSG are likely to simmer all season. Fans will be watching closely when the reverse fixture comes around. Will Rahul and Goenka reconcile on camera? Or will the cold vibes continue?
One thing is clear—KL Rahul has moved on, but the cricketing world isn’t done talking about what really happened between the superstar batter and one of IPL’s most involved team owners.
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