In an electrifying encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured a stunning five-wicket triumph over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The victory was propelled by a remarkable performance from Shardul Thakur, who delivered a spellbinding bowling performance, and Nicholas Pooran, who unleashed a dazzling batting onslaught.
Choosing to bowl first, LSG benefited immensely from Shardul Thakur’s early onslaught. The seasoned right-arm pacer dismantled the SRH batting lineup, crucially dismissing both Abhishek Sharma and the in-form Ishan Kishan off consecutive deliveries in the third over. Kishan, coming off a century from the previous match, was sent back to the pavilion for a golden duck, leaving SRH reeling at 8/2.
Despite a fierce counterattack led by Travis Head, who hammered a rapid 47 off just 28 balls, Thakur’s mastery continued. He returned to claim the scalps of Abhinav Manohar and Mohammed Shami, capping off an outstanding performance with figures of 4/34 from his four overs. The young LSG bowlers, Prince Yadav and Digvesh Rathi, also played their part effectively. Yadav ousted the dangerous Head, while Rathi dismissed Aniket Verma, further tightening the screws on SRH.
With SRH captain Pat Cummins providing a late flourish with an explosive 18-run cameo off just four balls, the home team managed to post a total of 190. However, LSG’s disciplined bowling ensured that the target remained within reach.
Chasing 191, LSG encountered an early hiccup with Aiden Markram falling cheaply to Mohammed Shami. But the innings quickly turned into a spectacle as Nicholas Pooran took center stage. The left-handed powerhouse unleashed a devastating assault, hammering seven fours and six sixes in a breathtaking 26-ball 70. His onslaught dismantled the SRH bowling attack and set the stage for a comfortable chase.
Support came in the form of Mitchell Marsh, who contributed a valuable 52 off 31 balls, and skipper Rishabh Pant, who played a composed knock of 15 off 15 deliveries, ensuring LSG stayed on course. Although Cummins managed to dismiss Pooran and Harshal Patel got rid of Pant, the chase was effectively sealed by David Miller’s unbeaten 13 and Abdul Samad’s crucial 22, finishing the game with 23 balls to spare.
With this victory, Lucknow Super Giants showcased their potential as serious contenders in IPL 2025. They are set to face Punjab Kings next on Tuesday at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, aiming to build on this impressive performance.