The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) continued their winning streak in the IPL 2024, on Tuesday night as their Super Giants outclassed the Mumbai Indians in a low-scoring encounter at Ekana Cricket Stadium. Skipper KL Rahul’s decision to bowl first proved to be a masterstroke as the Lucknow bowling attack choked the life out of the Mumbai batting line-up.
LSG captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that proved crucial. The Mumbai Indian batting line-up flattered gains a disciplined bowling attack from the Super Giants, with only Ishan Kishan managing a 38-run knock, but the rest of the batsmen struggled to find their footing. Avesh Khan was the pick of the LSG bowlers, picking up 3 wickets for just 20 runs in his four overs. The Mumbai innings eventually folded at a mere 144 runs in their allotted 20 overs.
In reply, the Lucknow chase also didn’t start smoothly. Quinton de Knock fell early, and LSG found themselves at 28/2 inside the powerplay. However, the experienced duo of KL Rahul (32) and Deepak Hooda (37) steadied the ship with a crucial 63-run partnership. Once again, it was Marcus Stoinis who proved to be the hero for Lucknow. The all-rounder player composed a knock of 42 runs off 31 deliveries, his innings laced with three boundaries and two sixes. Despite lost wickets at regular intervals, Stoinis ensured LSG chased down the target with 4 overs to spare.
This victory takes Lucknow Super Giants to the top of the IPL 2024 points table, showcasing their well-balanced squad and strong team performance. Mumbai Indians, on the other hand, continue to struggle, languishing at the bottom of the table.
Man of the Match: Marcus Stoinis (Lucknow Super Giants)