Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Lucknow Super Giants’ batting collapsed in shocking fashion as they lost to Rajasthan Royals by 40 runs in an IPL match on Wednesday. Chasing 160, LSG were bowled out for 119 in 18 overs after failing to handle pressure and throwing away their wickets with poor shot selection. The defeat came despite a strong bowling effort earlier in the game.
Shami sets it up, LSG mess it up
Mohammed Shami led Rajasthan’s bowling effort with class and control, while Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav chipped in with key wickets to restrict RR to 159/6. Shami (2/30) and Mohsin (2/17) removed top batters at crucial stages, including back-to-back strikes that broke Rajasthan’s top order. Prince Yadav also impressed with disciplined bowling and two wickets, while Mayank Yadav had a tough return, going wicketless.Rajasthan’s innings was rescued by Ravindra Jadeja, who played a calm unbeaten 43 off 29 balls. He ensured his team reached a fighting total despite early collapses, later adding value with the ball as well.
LSG collapse after Pant’s poor shot
LSG’s chase never really took off. Mitchell Marsh fought hard with a 55-run knock, but got little support as wickets kept falling. Skipper Rishabh Pant’s ugly sweep attempt triggered the slide, and the innings quickly fell apart. Poor shot selection from the middle order, including Nicholas Pooran and Himmat Singh, added to the collapse.The decision to use Himmat Singh as an Impact Sub also raised questions as LSG’s batting lacked stability. Rajasthan bowlers kept striking at regular intervals, with Jofra Archer (3/20) finishing things off in style.LSG’s batting implosion overshadowed Shami’s brilliant bowling earlier, as Rajasthan sealed a convincing win and moved to second place on the table.
