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Xtra Time Web Desk: Lucknow has embraced criticism in a positive light, particularly in relation to their captain, KL Rahul. The fact that they're willing to engage in banter about his strike rate demonstrates a healthy team culture where feedback is acknowledged and taken in stride. Despite any criticisms, Rahul's performance in the match against Gujarat showcased his resilience and value to the team. Scoring 33 runs off 31 balls on a challenging pitch, while also contributing with the ball by taking key wickets, underscores his importance as a stabilizing force in the team's lineup. Additionally, his partnership with Marcus Stoinis was pivotal in helping Lucknow set a competitive total and ultimately secure their third successive win in the IPL 2024 season. This demonstrates the depth of talent and teamwork within the Lucknow franchise, as well as their ability to adapt and succeed in different match conditions.

"Congrats, Rahul bhai. I think you should become India's next Defence Minister," Shubham Gaur can be seen saying in the video.

"You are also making fun of the strike rate," Rahul asks in response.

"No, No, you are successfully defending scores in the range of 160s. That's why," the influencer responds in the well-scripted banter between the two.

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KL Rahul has scored 128 runs in 4 matches at a strike rate of just 128.57 so far in IPL 2024. The star wicketkeeper-batter has often faced criticism over is strike rate, having scored 4289 runs so far in the IPL at 134.24.

Notably, LSG successfully defended a total in the 160s for the 13th time in the 3-year history of the team. KL Rahul may not have set the stage on fire with his bat, but the LSG captain was tactically brilliant as LSG won the game by 33 runs on Sunday.

Despite losing the pace sensation Mayank Yadav due to an injury scare after just 1 over from the 21-year-old, LSG bundled Gujarat out for 130 in 18.5 overs.

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Another young pacer in Yash Thakur took a 5-wicket haul, the first of IPL 2024 while left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya chipped in with 3 wickets for a miserly spell of 3 for 11.

After the 33-run win on Sunday, Lucknow moved to the 3rd spot in the IPL 2024 points table with 6 points from 4 matches. They are next only to Rajasthan and Kolkata who are the only two teams to have not lost a match so far in the season.