Xtra Time Web Desk: Lucknow Super Giants were the first team to arrive in Kolkata for IPL 2022 PlayOffs. Unfortunately, KL Rahul led side had to be contend with the No 3 spot in points table following Rajasthan Royals’ thrilling win over Chennai Super Kings on Friday night. Super Giants will now face either Delhi Capitals or Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator 1 at Eden Gardens on May 25.
Both the IPL newbies Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants have performed brilliantly throughout the season. Captain KL Rahul led his side from front. He is the second highest scorer in the ongoing season with 543 runs from 14 games at an average of 48.82. The LSG captain has registered two hundreds and 3 fifties in this edition of cash rich league.
Another key player for LSG has been Quinton de Kock. The South African handled the three-point role of wicketkeeper, opener and a senior member of the side with ease. De Kock repaid LSG’s faith in gold when he blasted a 70-ball 140 against KKR that spurred them into the playoffs. De Kock also made his runs at a wonderful strike rate of 149. He scored 502 runs from 14 games at an average of 38.61.
Deepak Hooda too provided meat and muscle to the Lucknow middle-order with consistent contributions. He worked as a wonderful link between the top order and the all-rounders who batted in the lower middle-order. Hooda scored 406 runs from 14 games at an average of 31.23.
The fast-bowling pair of Mohsin Khan and Avesh Khan has been revelation. Left arm pacer Mohsin broke into the LSG line-up a bit late and has made a mighty impression. His economy rate is an astounding 5.93 across 8 matches. He has picked 13 wickets. Avesh Khan too continued his good run in the IPL, and this time for the LSG. He has picked 17 wickets from 12 games so far.
Finally, Caribbean all-rounder Jason Holder did not have great time with the bat in the IPL 2022. But with the ball he made some telling contributions. His run rate over 9 might suggest that he was expensive but the West Indian also brought crucial breakthroughs at the right juncture.