The Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) chances of qualifying for the IPL 2024 Playoffs were severely damaged after Tuesday night’s 19-run loss to the Delhi Capitals (DC). The visitors could not keep up and concluded their innings with 189/9 as the hosts amassed a magnificent 208/4.
Experts were very critical of LSG skipper KL Rahul’s decision to toss, even if Nicholas Pooran‘s 61 off 27 balls gave some optimism. Rahul was criticised by former Indian batsman Mohammad Kaif for his decision to bowl first after winning the toss in a high-scoring match.
“Remove and discard the video analyst’s computer. They chose not to use any figures. Here, 200 has not been pursued in any way. I’ll give you the figures for this year. The squad that bats first has won each of the last four games. On Star Sports, Kaif stated, “You won the toss and said you would field first.”
The former India batsman highlighted that, considering the run-fest nature of the competition, in which teams have routinely amassed totals of 200 or more, it made sense to bat first.
“The choice made at the toss was the biggest error. There will therefore also be a question mark over the bowling. This match held everything to gain for Lucknow. I think that Lucknow’s show was a complete bust,” he continued.
How are you batting, Aakash Chopra?
Aakash Chopra, a former Indian batsman, made fun of LSG’s dismal batting display. After five overs, the top order was struggling at 44/4. He questioned their lack of intention and choice of shots.
“What kind of batting are you doing when Lucknow comes to bat? Due to Quinton de Kock’s poor bat technique, KL Rahul was out for five. Then (Marcus) Stoinis arrived, leaving him trapped in the midst. For zero, Deepak Hooda was out. How are you spending your time? on his YouTube account, Chopra stated.
Following the defeat, LSG is now down 12 points from 13 games. Given that teams like CSK and SRH are still in the running for the playoffs, their league finale against the Mumbai Indians on May 17th is now practically a knockout. Delhi has moved up to fifth place with 14 points, maintaining their modest hopes.