Mumbai, May 17 (UNI) Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) posted a competitive total of 214/7, largely due to a scintillating innings from Nicholas Pooran in an Indian Premier League game at the Wankhede stadium here on Frday.
Pooran's explosive batting was the highlight, as he hammered eight sixes in his innings, propelling LSG towards a potential score of 230-240.
Pooran’s clean and powerful hitting was pivotal, but his dismissal triggered a mini-collapse, causing some anxious moments for the LSG middle order. Despite the setback, Ayush Badoni (22* off 10, 1x4, 2x6) and Krunal Pandya (12* off 7, 1x4, 1x6) provided crucial cameos at the end, ensuring LSG reached a solid total.
Earlier in the innings, LSG had a shaky start. Devdutt Padikkal continued his tough season, dismissed for a duck in the first over. Marcus Stoinis (28 off 22) showed promise but was trapped LBW by Piyush Chawla. Deepak Hooda’s struggles continued as he scored just 11 off 9 balls.
KL Rahul, initially scoring at a strike rate below 100, dramatically shifted gears by hitting consecutive sixes off Chawla, eventually scoring 55 off 41 balls before being caught by Nuwan Thusara off Chawla.
Krunal Pandya might have missed a tactical opportunity by not using more spin when Pooran was attacking, as the quick bowlers were severely punished. Despite this, LSG set a formidable target for Mumbai Indians, who now face a challenging chase to end their campaign on a high note. UNI BDN SSP