The 57th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 pits Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad tonight at 7:30 PM IST.
Both teams are having a similar outing in the ongoing season, so far, with six victories and five defeats, each. Due to a healthier net run rate, SRH have acquired the fourth spot while LSG are in the sixth position in the IPL standings.
However, a loss in their previous matches means both sides are eager to get back on track. This encounter solidifies the winner’s place in the coveted top four spots on the points table.
SRH’s batting revolve heavily around the explosive Travis Head. However, the recent dip in the form of his opening partner, Abhishek Sharma, has forced a more cautious approach from the team.
LSG will pin their hopes on the young pace sensation, Mohsin Khan, who has been particularly effective against left-handed batters. His ability to restrict the free-scoring potential of the SRH opening duo will be critical for LSG’s bowling success.
The middle order of the Orange Army, anchored by Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy, has provided some stability. An intriguing question mark hangs over their selection, with Aiden Markram potentially replacing all-rounder Marco Jansen to bolster their batting depth.
While the batting has been a concern, off late, SRH’s bowling attack, led by the skipper and birthday boy, Pat Cummins, and ably supported by Bhuvneshwar Kumar and T Natarajan, has been a bright spot. SRH could be a force to reckon with if they rediscover their batting prowess while playing their final three fixtures at home.
LSG face a similar challenge with their opening partnership. Skipper KL Rahul leads from the front, but the team desperately need a reliable partner. Quinton de Kock‘s absence from the playing XI and the unsuccessful experiment with Arshin Kulkarni leave them in a conundrum. With crucial matches ahead, LSG might consider bringing back the experienced De Kock.
Marcus Stoinis has provided some stability at number three, but the middle and lower middle order, featuring Deepak Hooda, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, and Ashton Turner, have all struggled for consistency. This inconsistency could prove costly against the potent bowling attack of Bhuvneshwar, Cummins and Natarajan, making the contest a battle of nerves.
Yash Thakur and Naveen-ul-Haq, with 11 and 10 wickets each have been the leading wicket-takers for Lucknow.
Head-to-Head:
LSG dominate in the head-to-head battle as they are unbeaten against SRH.
Where-to-Watch:
OTT: JioCinema