Lucknow Super Giants delivered a commanding performance against table-toppers Gujarat Titans, securing a comprehensive 33-run victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The match showcased LSG’s explosive batting, with Mitchell Marsh’s magnificent century anchoring a mammoth total of 235/2 in 20 overs, while their bowlers executed a clinical performance in the death overs to restrict GT to 202/9 despite a valiant chase.
Mitchell Marsh’s century was the standout moment of the match. He combined power and precision to reach triple figures, setting a formidable platform for LSG. Nicholas Pooran’s explosive cameo at the end of the innings pushed the total beyond Gujarat’s comfort zone, making it psychologically daunting for the chasing side.
Gujarat Titans began their chase with positive intent. Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan put on a solid 46-run opening stand, but the loss of Sudharsan in the fifth over started a pattern of regular wickets. Gill continued to bat aggressively, forming a crucial 39-run partnership with Jos Buttler that kept GT’s hopes alive. Gill’s 35 off 20 and Buttler’s 33 off 18 showcased GT’s explosive potential at the top.
The most significant partnership for GT came between Sherfane Rutherford and Shahrukh Khan, who added 86 runs together. At 182/3, with just 54 runs needed from 24 balls, GT seemed well-placed for victory. Shahrukh Khan’s 55 off 26 was a highlight, playing with composure under pressure. However, Rutherford’s dismissal for 38 triggered a dramatic collapse, as GT lost their last six wickets for just 20 runs, falling short by 33 runs.
LSG’s bowling unit was clinical in the death overs. Akash Singh’s clever knuckle ball to dismiss Jos Buttler was a turning point, celebrated with his signature notebook gesture. Ayush Badoni’s final over, where he claimed two wickets and conceded only four runs, epitomized LSG’s execution under pressure. The collective effort from bowlers like Avesh Khan and Will O’Rourke maintained pressure throughout, with O’Rourke’s early breakthrough setting the tone.
This victory positions Lucknow Super Giants as serious contenders in the tournament. Their ability to deliver with both bat and ball, especially in high-pressure moments, was on full display. For Gujarat Titans, the match highlighted both their batting depth and the need to handle pressure better in the final stages of a chase. The dramatic collapse in the last few overs exposed a vulnerability that they will need to address moving forward.
