The KL Rahul-Sanjiv Goenka episode after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderbad has set the entire cricket fraternity on fire, with reactions pouring in from all corners. Several former cricketers have attacked the LSG owner over his public outrage against 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 highly publicized incident and said it is a shame that it had to happen in public.
Shami, in a conversation on Cricbuzz, had no qualms about suggesting that he was embarrassed to see such an episode taking place on the ground.
“Players have respect, and you are also a respectful person because you are an owner. A lot of people are watching you and learning from you. When these things happen in front of the cameras… ye sharam ki baat hai. It's a matter of shame,” Shami said.
Not impressed with Goenka's handling of KL Rahul. Property does not permit abuse. Many IPL team owners show dignity in wins and losses. Player respect is essential, regardless of the results.@DrSanjivGoenka pic.twitter.com/1WVnrv4V5O
— Hansraj Saini (@HansrajSai58805) May 10, 2024
The veteran pacer believes there were better ways to handle the situation as the conversation could have taken place in the dressing room or the hotel.
“If you have to do that, there are many different ways. You could have done the same thing in the dressing room or in the hotel. There was no need to do it on the field. Aise reaction dekar laal qile pe jhanda toh gaada nahi hai aapne (It's not like you raised a flag at the Red Fort with this),” the India star further said.
Shami was not happy that Rahul was not getting the respect he deserves after a bad day at the office.
“He is also the captain, not a normal player. It is a team game; if the plan is not successful, that is not a problem. Everything is possible in the game. I understand that there can be good or bad days.” but every player has respect, and there is a way to talk. This sends a very wrong message,” Shami said.
After the incident became a hot topic of discussion, it was also reported that Rahul might no longer be appointed as captain of LSG.
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