The KL Rahul-Sanjiv Goenka episode after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderbad has triggered the entire cricketing fraternity, with reactions pouring in from all corners. Several former cricketers have hit out at the LSG owner for his public dressing down of the franchise’s skipper Rahul after the humiliating defeat against SRH. Now, Rahul’s India teammate Mohammed Shami has also shared his verdict on the much-talked-about incident, saying it’s a shame that it had to happen out in open.
Shami, in a chat on Cricbuzz, had no qualms in suggesting that he was ashamed to see such and episode unfold on the ground.
“Players have respect, and you are a respectful person, too, as you are an owner. Many people are watching you and learning from you. If these things happen in front of cameras… ye sharam ki baat hai. it’s a matter of shame,” Shami said.
Unimpressed by Goenka’s handling of KL Rahul. Ownership doesn’t permit mistreatment. Many owners of the IPL team demonstrate dignity in victories and losses. Player respect is key, irrespective of results.@DrSanjivGoenka pic.twitter.com/1WVnrv4V5O
— Hansraj Saini (@HansrajSai58805) May 10, 2024
The veteran pacer feels there were better ways to handle the situation, as the talk could’ve taken place inside the dressing room or hotel.
“If you have to do that, there are many different ways. You could’ve done the same thing in the dressing room or the hotel. It wasn’t necessary to do it on the field. Aise reaction dekar laal qile pe jhanda toh gaada nahi hai aapne (It isn’t as if you hoisted a flag at Red Fort by doing this),” said the India star further.
Shami wasn’t happy seeing Rahul not being shown the respect he deserves after what was only a bad day at the office.
“He’s the captain, too, not a normal player. It’s a team game; if the plan isn’t successful, it isn’t a big thing. Anything is possible in the game. I understand there can be good or bad days, but every player has respect, and there’s a way to talk. This sends a very wrong message,” said Shami.
After the incident became a hot topic of discussion, it has also been reported that Rahul might no longer be persisted with as the captain of LSG.
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