The 39th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 pits Chennai Super Kings (CSK) against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, tonight at 7:30 PM IST.
Both CSK and LSG stand in a similar position, having won four out of their seven matches played so far. However, CSK holds a slight edge due to a superior net run rate. Notably, these teams just met three days ago at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, where LSG, emerged victorious by a comfortable margin of eight wickets.
While the defending champions have an enviable record of being undefeated at Chepauk, their fortress-like status can be challenged today. The team from Lucknow will be keen to build on their recent win, particularly with skipper KL Rahul leading the charge. Rahul has been in phenomenal form, amassing 286 runs and boasting an impressive record against the five-time IPL champions, having scored four fifties in eight innings. Quinton de Kock has ably supported him at the top of the order with 228 runs, but the Super Giants continue to search for a solid middle-order batsman. Nicholas Pooran, with 246 runs at a strike rate of 164, has single-handedly taken the responsibility of finishing the innings strong. The previous match even saw Pooran being promoted up the order, highlighting LSG’s middle-order woes.
Their bowling attack has mirrored the team’s performance. Yash Thakur leads the pack with eight wickets, followed closely by Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Naveen-ul-Haq (six wickets each). The spin duo of Krunal Pandya and Ravi Bishnoi have also chipped in with five wickets apiece.
The Super Kings, in contrast, face challenges with their opening partnership. Ajinkya Rahane (160 runs) and Rachin Ravindra (133 runs) haven’t provided the desired early starts, leading to early wicket losses. However, the middle order, spearheaded by Ruturaj Gaikwad (241 runs) and Shivam Dube (245 runs), has steadied the ship. Ravindra Jadeja (141 runs) and MS Dhoni‘s explosive batting with a strike rate of 256 have helped the yellow army finish innings with a flourish.
Mustafizur Rahman (11 wickets) has been CSK’s standout bowler with Matheesha Pathirana (nine wickets). Tushar Deshpande has chipped in with six wickets, while Deepak Chahar and Jadeja have contributed four wickets each.
Head-to-Head:
Historically, Chennai and Lucknow have met four times in the IPL. CSK have won once, while LSG have emerged victorious twice. One encounter ended with no result.
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams aim to climb the IPL ladder. Chennai will look to capitalize on their home advantage and avenge their recent defeat, while Lucknow will be determined to maintain their winning momentum.
Where-to-watch:
OTT: JioCinema