Markram And Samad Shine As LSG Sets 180 Against RR

In a thrilling encounter at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) posted a competitive total of 180 for 5 against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their IPL 2025 clash on Saturday. The Super Giants’ innings was marked by explosive performances from Aiden Markram, Ayush Badoni, and a sensational finish from Abdul Samad, who lit up the final over with a flurry of sixes.

After winning the toss, LSG opted to bat first, but the decision initially appeared to backfire as they found themselves in trouble early on. The opening pair of Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran struggled to make an impact, with Marsh scoring just 4 runs and Pooran only managing 11 before falling victim to Sandeep Sharma’s bowling. LSG’s captain, Rishabh Pant, also failed to deliver, scoring a mere 3 runs off 9 balls, raising concerns given the hefty investment of INR 27 crore in his services.

However, Aiden Markram and Ayush Badoni came to the rescue with a crucial 76-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Markram, the South African opener, played a commanding innings, scoring 66 runs off 45 balls, which included 5 boundaries and 3 sixes. His innings was instrumental in stabilizing LSG’s innings after the early setbacks.

Badoni, who showcased his talent with a solid 50 runs off 34 deliveries, also contributed significantly to the partnership. The duo’s efforts were vital in lifting LSG from a precarious 54 for 3 in the eighth over to a more respectable position as they approached the latter stages of their innings.

As the innings progressed, Abdul Samad stepped up to provide a spectacular finish for LSG. In the final over, he unleashed a barrage of sixes against Sandeep Sharma, hitting four maximums and scoring an unbeaten 30 runs off just 10 balls. His explosive performance in the last over helped LSG reach a total of 180, a score that seemed unlikely earlier in the innings. Samad’s late flourish included a staggering 27 runs in that final over alone, leaving the RR bowlers bewildered.

On the bowling front, Rajasthan’s Wanindu Hasaranga was the standout performer, claiming 2 wickets for 31 runs in his four overs. He dismissed both Markram and Pant, showcasing his skills as a key player for RR. Despite the loss of early wickets, LSG’s batting depth proved crucial in setting a challenging target.

As the Royals prepared to chase 181 runs for victory, they made a notable change to their lineup. Youngster Vaibhav Suryavanshi, just 14 years old, was handed his debut, replacing the sidelined skipper Sanju Samson, who was out due to a side strain. Suryavanshi was set to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jasiwal, marking an exciting moment for the franchise.

The stage is now set for an intriguing chase as the Rajasthan Royals look to capitalize on their strengths and find a way to overcome the target set by the Super Giants. With the young talent of Suryavanshi and the experience of their existing squad, fans can expect an exhilarating contest.

As the match progresses, the LSG bowlers will be keen to make early breakthroughs to put pressure on the Royals’ batting lineup. The outcome of this high-stakes match remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the IPL 2025 season continues to deliver thrilling cricket action.