The Lucknow Super Giants emerged victorious against Mumbai Indians with a strong all-round performance. Their bowlers were spot on, grabbing early wickets and keeping MI in check throughout the innings. The visiting team managed an average 144 in 20 overs. Marcus Stoinis once again played an important role for LSG, scoring a brilliant 62 and picking up a wicket for just 19 runs. LSG moved to third with 12 points 10 matches. MI are ninth with six from 10.
LSG bowlers run through MI top-order
The LSG bowlers displayed an exceptional performance, putting pressure on MI and seizing control of the match within the first six overs. Rohit Sharma’s birthday celebrations were dampened as he fell early, dismissed after playing a loose shot and getting caught at covers. Given the new ball for the first time in the tournament, Stoinis claimed the vital wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, with a touch of luck. That delivery perhaps didn’t merit a wicket. Tilak Varma, MI’s most consistent batter this season, was run out. The standout bowler was Naveen-ul-Haq, who not only dismissed MI captain Hardik Pandya for a duck, but also returned impressive figures of 1/15 from four overs.
Wadhera, David resurrect innings
MI were in a dire situation when Nehal Wadhera walked out to bat. With the team struggling and wickets falling at regular intervals, someone had to rise to the occasion. Wadhera did just that. His innings of 46 provided MI with a competitive total to defend. He displayed his talent with some outstanding shots. Ishan Kishan supported Wadhera in the partnership, but struggled to accelerate as the innings progressed, eventually being dismissed for 32. As MI sought a strong finish, Tim David stepped up. The big-hitting Australian unleashed a flurry of boundaries in the final overs, scoring 35 runs at a strike rate of 194.44, propelling MI to 144/7.
Good start for MI with the ball not enough
Defending a modest total, it becomes crucial to pick up early wickets to put pressure on the batting side. The young Arshin Kulkarni fell in the first over, departing without scoring. KL Rahul, looking elegant at the crease during his brief 28, couldn’t capitalise on his start. MI got the openers in quick succession, but they struggled to maintain the pressure on LSG until the final few overs of the game, which resulted in the game drifting away from them.
Stoinis stars once again for LSG
Although he couldn’t see LSG through to the end, Stoinis once again proved to be a key player for his team with a crucial knock of 62. While the chase may not have been particularly challenging until the final three overs, understanding the game situation and playing accordingly was important. The Australian’s ability to clear boundaries with ease and his fantastic ball striking were a delight for the LSG fans at the stadium. Eventually, Nicholas Pooran ensured that his team sealed a much-needed victory.
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