As the Lucknow Super Giants gear up to take on the Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023, this clash probably holds a special place in every LSG fan's heart.
Just like this season, it was LSG's second game of IPL 2022. Having made their debut in that season itself, Lucknow Super Giants were yet to come together as a team.
The KL Rahul-led side was coming off an opening-game loss against the Gujarat Titans and in their way were 4-time IPL champions, CSK.
Having played just 1 game before that, LSG didn't have a huge fanbase till then but things were about to change overnight.
MS Dhoni-led CSK posted a mammoth total of 210/7 and not many gave LSG a fighting chance. But what followed was not just a run-chase but a statement.
After a 99-run opening stand by Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul, Evin Lews blasted an unbeaten 23-ball-55. A young Ayush Badoni too burst onto the big stage with 2 sixes as LSG crossed the finish line with 3 balls to spare.
With the 4th-highest run-chase in IPL history, KL Rahul's men sent out a loud message that they cannot be taken lightly. This clash probably gave LSG their identity and a sense of belief that the team could win in any situation.
The same opposition once again stands in LSG's way. With Chepauk CSK's fortress, the stakes are against KL Rahul's men. But going by the statement LSG made after that game last year, there would surely be a few alarms in CSK's dressing room.
Also read: Watch! IPL 2023: Lucknow Super Giants arrive in Chennai in style