Cricket

Lucknow Super Giants Face Chennai Super Kings in Crucial ClashLucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will lock horns in a pivotal Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 encounter at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on Friday.LSG, who had won three consecutive games, have suffered back-to-back defeats against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. Their batting has been a concern, with Quinton de Kock, KL Rahul, and Marcus Stoinis struggling for consistency.CSK, on the other hand, have regained their winning ways with two consecutive victories after two losses. Their fast bowlers have been impressive, while their batters have contributed in high-scoring matches.The pitch in Lucknow is expected to favor pace and bounce, which could benefit both teams' fast bowlers. LSG will be keen to utilize Ravi Bishnoi and Krunal Pandya effectively against the in-form Shivam Dube.LSG may consider bringing in Mayank Yadav as an Impact sub for de Kock, while CSK could opt for Moeen Ali in place of Daryl Mitchell.Deepak Hooda, who has struggled for form this season, will be under pressure to perform at No. 3 for LSG. Mitchell, who has yet to make a significant impact for CSK, will be eager to prove his worth.CSK's bowlers have been exceptional in the middle overs, conceding just 7.03 runs per over. Matheesha Pathirana has dismissed Nicholas Pooran three times in three T20 meetings, which could be a key factor in the match.LSG assistant coach Lance Klusener has urged his team to show more intent with the bat, while CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has emphasized the importance of backing players despite fluctuations in form.

Punjab Kings' all-rounder Sam Curran expressed disappointment after his team's narrow three-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite restricting Royals to a modest 147/8, Punjab's batters failed to capitalize, leaving Curran to lament their inability to finish games.Curran, who led the team in the absence of injured skipper Shikhar Dhawan, acknowledged the challenging nature of the wicket but emphasized the need for better execution. "We didn't start well with the bat and didn't finish well in the end," he said. "It was a good effort from the lower order, getting (close) to 150 was excellent, but unfortunately, it was another close loss."Punjab's batting woes have been a recurring theme this season, with the team struggling to convert competitive performances into wins. Curran highlighted the importance of adapting to the new venue, but expressed confidence in his team's ability to bounce back."Three games is a hard way to fully work out the conditions, but we've adapted well," he said. "We won the first match and lost two matches by close margins. It's hard to take, but the boys will be lifted by how well we've played in the last couple of games."Despite the setbacks, Curran praised his team's bowling and fielding efforts. "We stuck to our plans, bowled and fielded well," he said. "We're confident we'll bounce back in the next game."Punjab Kings will be looking to break their losing streak when they face Kolkata Knight Riders on April 13.