Akash Deep fit and set for his first game of the season
Since their IPL debut in 2022, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have had the upper hand against Mumbai Indians (MI), boasting a dominant 5-1 head-to-head record. However, as they host MI in Lucknow, LSG have several concerns to address.
LSG’s Struggles with the Bat
While Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh have played impactful innings, the rest of LSG’s batting order has yet to fire. Captain Rishabh Pant has managed only 17 runs across three innings, while Ayush Badoni, a key retention for the franchise, has contributed just 51 runs. Aiden Markram has also had a sluggish start to the season, adding to the team’s woes, especially after losing key pacers Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, and Mohsin Khan to injuries. The good news for LSG is that Akash Deep has recovered from his back injury and is available for selection.
MI’s Mixed Start and Batting Concerns
After opening their season with consecutive losses, MI bounced back with a commanding win over Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite missing Jasprit Bumrah, their bowling unit has been one of the best this season, ranking second in wickets taken, average, and economy rate.
While Suryakumar Yadav appears to have regained form and Ryan Rickelton impressed with a quickfire fifty against KKR, Rohit Sharma’s struggles remain a concern. The veteran opener has scored just 21 runs in three innings, and MI will be hoping for a turnaround in his form.
Akash Deep Set for LSG Debut
Akash Deep is expected to replace Avesh Khan, who has had a tough season so far, conceding 75 runs in seven overs while picking up just one wicket.
Probable Playing XIs
Lucknow Super Giants:
- Aiden Markram, 2. Mitchell Marsh, 3. Nicholas Pooran, 4. Rishabh Pant (capt & wk), 5. Ayush Badoni, 6. David Miller, 7. Abdul Samad, 8. Shardul Thakur, 9. Digvesh Rathi, 10. Akash Deep, 11. Ravi Bishnoi, 12. M Siddharth.
Mumbai Indians:
- Rohit Sharma, 2. Ryan Rickelton (wk), 3. Suryakumar Yadav, 4. Tilak Varma, 5. Hardik Pandya (capt), 6. Naman Dhir, 7. Mitchell Santner, 8. Deepak Chahar, 9. Trent Boult, 10. Ashwani Kumar, 11. Vignesh Puthur, 12. Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
MI could consider bringing in Mujeeb Ur Rahman if the pitch in Lucknow is expected to assist spinners. The only game Mujeeb has played this season was on a turning surface in Ahmedabad, where he conceded 28 runs in two overs. If he returns, it might be at the expense of Will Jacks.
Key Storylines to Watch
MI’s Young Indian Talent Making an Impact
MI have a strong track record of identifying and nurturing Indian talent, with stars like Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav honing their T20 skills at the franchise. This season, they have introduced left-arm wristspinner Vignesh Puthur and left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumar, both of whom have impressed. Puthur has taken four wickets in two matches, while Ashwani picked up four wickets in his only game.
Can Ravi Bishnoi Find His Rhythm?
LSG’s premier spinner, Ravi Bishnoi, has been their top wicket-taker since 2022 and was retained for INR 11 crore. However, he has struggled this season, picking up just three wickets in 11 overs at an economy rate of 12.54. His middle-over economy rate of 12.25 is the highest among bowlers who have bowled at least eight overs in that phase. With LSG relying on him as their lead spinner, they need him to regain form quickly.
MI’s Spin Strength vs LSG’s Batting Woes
With Mitchell Santner (left-arm orthodox), Vignesh Puthur (left-arm wristspin), and offspinners Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Will Jacks in their ranks, MI boast a versatile spin attack. They have the second-best economy rate (8.12) and the third-best average (27.28) among spin-bowling units this season. If the Lucknow pitch favors turn, LSG’s batting lineup could be in for a stern test.
