In a dominant display from the home side, KL Rahul proved to be the star of the show for the Lucknow Super Giants in their resounding victory over the Chennai Super Kings, achieving an impressive 8-wicket win on Friday night. The LSG duo of KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock was pivotal in chasing down the target set by CSK, making what seemed a challenging total of 177 look easily achievable.
The match, which was crucial for the Super Giants to regain their form, saw the opening pair dismantle the Chennai bowling attack with relative ease. Their partnership of 134 runs not only set the tone for a comprehensive win but also marked the highest opening stand of this IPL season, overshadowing a spirited effort by MS Dhoni earlier in the game.
Dhoni's explosive cameo had propelled CSK to 176 after a shaky start, instilling some hope of a competitive game. However, Rahul and de Kock's masterful partnership quickly dashed any such expectations from the CSK camp. De Kock, consistent as ever, contributed a solid fifty before making his exit. Meanwhile, KL Rahul, who had been under scrutiny for his pace of scoring earlier in the tournament, responded brilliantly with an 82 off 53 deliveries, effectively silencing his critics.
Even though Rahul was dismissed by an outstanding catch from Ravindra Jadeja in the 18th over, LSG were coasting to victory with Nicholas Pooran present at the other end. Promoted up the order following de Kock’s dismissal, Pooran ensured no further twists in the tale, smashing an unbeaten 23 off just 12 balls. His quick scoring ensured that LSG crossed the finish line comfortably, with an entire over to spare.
Watch: MS Dhoni's stunning cameo for CSK lights up Ekana; smashes 101-metre six against LSG