Lucknow Super Giants secured a thrilling nine-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a rain-affected IPL match at the Ekana Stadium on Thursday. Despite a valiant effort from RCB, who fought back after a disastrous start, LSG held their nerve to win.
Marsh's Masterclass
Mitchell Marsh was the star for LSG, smashing 111 off just 56 balls. His innings, which included several sixes, helped LSG post 209 for 3 in a match reduced to 19 overs due to rain. Marsh added 95 runs for the first wicket with Arshin Kulkarni (17) and 70 with Nicholas Pooran (38).
RCB's Rocky Chase
Chasing 213, RCB lost openers Virat Kohli (0) and Jacob Bethell (4) early. Medium-pacer Prince Yadav impressed with three wickets, including Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, and Jitesh Sharma. Rajat Patidar fought back with 61 off 31 balls, but his dismissal left RCB struggling.
Tim David, Romario Shepherd, and Krunal Pandya kept RCB in the hunt, bringing the equation down to 20 runs off the last over. However, LSG captain Rishabh Pant turned to leg-spinner Digvesh Rathi, who held his nerve to defend the total.
Key Performances
- Mitchell Marsh: 111 off 56 balls
- Rajat Patidar: 61 off 31 balls
- Prince Yadav: 3 wickets for LSG
- Digvesh Rathi: 1 wicket in the final over
The win keeps LSG's slim playoff hopes alive, while RCB's path to the top four becomes more complicated.
