DRS Oct 30: LSG name 1st IPL 2025 retention, KKR to lose Shreyas Iyer, Russell & RCB batter with 68-ball 100

We are within touching distance of the IPL 2025 retentions deadline date. October 31st is the day when the ten IPL franchises will have to name their core group of players around whom they are going to build their squad for the next three seasons. However, as always, the IPL retention rumour mill doesn’t stop anytime, with fans garnering innumerable updates on their favourite players and franchises. Similarly, we saw the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) make their first move by making Nicholas Pooran sign on the dotted lines. This also certifies that KL Rahul is definitely out of his way off LSG, something that Insidesport told earlier as well. On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer and Andre Russell were among the news as well. On that note, here are six of the most striking stories from October 29.

LSG sign Pooran, KL Rahul officially out?

According to Cricbuzz, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have retained Nicholas Pooran ahead of the IPL 2025 player retention deadline. This comes amid reports of the franchise parting ways with captain KL Rahul. Pooran’s retention deal could be worth Rs 18 crore, a Rs 2 crore increase from his previous auction price. The West Indian keeper-batter met with LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka to finalise the contract on Tuesday. However, Insidesport can also tell you that the Rs 18 crore value of Pooran could shoot up to Rs 21 crore.

Shreyas Iyer-KKR partnership end?

Shreyas Iyer, the KKR captain who led them to the IPL 2024 title, is likely to enter the IPL 2025 auction. Reports suggest that he has received a lucrative offer from another franchise. While not officially confirmed, this development could be a huge blow to KKR. Iyer’s leadership and batting abilities have been crucial to his teams’ success. If he changes franchises, it will be interesting to see where he ends up and how he performs in the upcoming IPL 2025. Maybe a Delhi Capitals (DC) reunion on the cards for Iyer!

Rajat Patidar fires!

Rajat Patidar is back in form! The Madhya Pradesh batter smashed a 68-ball century in the Ranji Trophy, breaking the state’s previous record. Patidar’s blistering knock has once again brought him into the limelight, especially after his impressive IPL performance with RCB. With his recent form, it’s likely that RCB might consider retaining him for the IPL 2025 season. While his century was imperious, Rishabh Pant’s 48-ball century remains the fastest in Ranji Trophy history.

New debutant for India: Harshit Rana?

Harshit Rana is set to make his Test debut for India in the third Test against New Zealand. The Delhi pacer has been added to the squad after impressing with his recent fifer and a fifty in the Ranji Trophy. With India likely to field three pacers at the Wankhede Stadium, Rana could be the third seamer alongside Siraj and Akash Deep, resting Bumrah. In his last three FC games (1 Ranji and 2 Duleep Trophy), Harshit has bagged 15 wickets, with a five-wicket haul and two four-fers.

Andre Russell bye bye as well for KKR?

According to reports, KKR has decided not to retain Andre Russell, a surprising move considering his long association with the franchise. The 36-year-old all-rounder has been a key player for KKR, contributing mind-blowingly with both bat and ball since 2014. Reports also suggest that Mitchell Starc might not be retained. While Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, and Harshit Rana are likely to be retained, KKR’s decision to let go of Russell and potentially Starc will be closely watched.

Another rank-turner in IND vs NZ Tests?

India’s recent struggles against spin bowling have been evident. Despite this, the team management has requested a rank turner pitch for the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. While this strategy could give Indian spinners an advantage, it also risks exposing the vulnerabilities of the Indian batting lineup. A pitch with excessive spin and bounce could lead to a quick finish, and Mitchell Santner would be licking his lips for sure. This risky approach might yield short-term gains but could hinder the long-term development of Indian batters.