Xtra Time Web Desk: In a low-scoring match at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) defeated IPL 2023 table-toppers Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 10 runs. Both teams now have 8 points from 6 matches, but RR retained the No.1 spot due to their superior net run rate. This win was LSG’s first over RR after losing to them twice in the 2022 IPL.
LSG successfully defended the lowest total of this season, thanks to an excellent bowling performance from Avesh Khan (3 for 25) and Marcus Stoinis (2 for 28). Despite the sluggish pitch, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler gave RR a solid opening stand. Jaiswal was more aggressive, hitting 4 fours and 2 sixes in a 35-ball 44, but was sent back by Stoinis. He also removed Buttler for 40 off 41 balls, and Sanju Samson was run out by Amit Mishra.
Shimron Hetmyer fell to Khan, and Devdutt Padikkal was well set when Riyan Parag joined him. RR needed 42 off the last 3 overs, but their slow approach was baffling, given their deep batting lineup.
Earlier Lucknow Super Giants openers had a bizarre approach after RR won the toss and chose to bowl. KL Rahul showed no intent, and Kyle Mayers struggled with his rhythm. LSG managed only 37 runs in the Powerplay and sent Ayush Badoni and out-of-form Deepak Hooda ahead of Marcus Stoinis and Nicholas Pooran. Mayers eventually hit a half-century, but he was not at his fluent best.
LSG finished with 154 for 7, thanks to a spectacular bowling performance from RR, with Trent Boult finishing his 4 overs for 1 for 16 and R Ashwin with 2 for 23 off his 4 overs. However, Yuzvendra Chahal, who is currently leading the Purple Cap race, conceded 41 runs in his spell.