LSG V/S KKR

Match Report: Lucknow Super Giants Defeat Kolkata Knight Riders in Thrilling Encounter

Kolkata, April 8, 2025 - In a high-scoring thriller at Eden Gardens, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) held their nerve to secure a narrow 4-run victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 21 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

Pooran and Marsh Power LSG to a Staggering Total:

Asked to bat first, LSG rode on blistering half-centuries from Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh to post a formidable 238/3. The opening pair of Marsh (81 off 48) and Aiden Markram (47 off 28) set a strong foundation with a 95-run stand. Pooran then provided the late fireworks, smashing an unbeaten 87 off just 36 deliveries, including seven fours and eight towering sixes.

KKR's Top Order Fights Valiantly but Collapses Under Pressure:

Chasing a daunting target, KKR got off to a flying start, reaching 90/1 in the powerplay. Ajinkya Rahane, leading the side, played a magnificent innings of 61 off 35 balls. He was well supported by Venkatesh Iyer, who contributed a quickfire 45 off 29. However, after reaching 149/2 in the 12th over, KKR suffered a dramatic batting collapse, losing four wickets in quick succession for just 28 runs.

Late Heroics from Rinku Singh in Vain:

Rinku Singh once again showcased his finishing prowess with a sensational 38 off just 15 balls, hitting two fours and three sixes. He brought KKR agonizingly close to the target, but it ultimately wasn't enough as LSG held on for a nail-biting win.

Key Moments:

• Nicholas Pooran's explosive hitting: His unbeaten 87 propelled LSG to a massive total.

• KKR's strong opening: Rahane and Narine's aggressive start gave KKR hope.

• LSG's crucial wickets in the middle overs: The dismissals of Rahane, Ramandeep Singh, Raghuvanshi, and Venkatesh Iyer turned the tide.

• Rinku Singh's late onslaught: His heroic effort almost snatched victory for KKR.

Turning Point:

The cluster of wickets taken by LSG bowlers Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, and Avesh Khan in the middle overs derailed KKR's chase after a promising start.

Player of the Match:

Nicholas Pooran was adjudged the Player of the Match for his scintillating unbeaten knock of 87.

Points Table Impact:

With this win, Lucknow Super Giants move up to fourth position in the IPL 2025 points table, while Kolkata Knight Riders slip to sixth.

Brief Scorecard:

Lucknow Super Giants: 238/3 (20 overs) - Nicholas Pooran 87* (36), Mitchell Marsh 81 (48), Aiden Markram 47 (28) Kolkata Knight Riders: 234/7 (20 overs) - Ajinkya Rahane 61 (35), Venkatesh Iyer 45 (29), Rinku Singh 38 (15)

Looking Ahead:

KKR will need to address their middle-order collapse, while LSG will be buoyed by their batting performance and will look to maintain their winning momentum.