Nicholas Pooran Powers LSG To Victory Over SRH

In a thrilling encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) clinched a commanding five-wicket victory over the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during the seventh match of the IPL 2025 season. The match, played on March 27, 2025, was marked by explosive performances from Nicholas Pooran and Shardul Thakur, who both played pivotal roles in LSG's triumph.

SRH batted first and set a respectable total of 190 runs for the loss of nine wickets. However, it proved to be below par on a pitch conducive to high-scoring games. Shardul Thakur was the standout bowler for LSG, taking four wickets for just 34 runs in his four overs, effectively derailing SRH's innings.

The Sunrisers started strong with their openers, Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, but Thakur quickly turned the tide. He struck in the third over, dismissing Sharma for just six runs and then following it up with the wicket of Ishan Kishan, who was out for a golden duck. Despite a valiant effort from Head, who scored 47 off 28 balls, SRH’s middle order faltered under pressure.

Nitish Kumar Reddy contributed 32 runs, while Heinrich Klaasen added 26 before being run out in a bizarre fashion. Aniket Verma provided a late flourish with a quickfire 36 off just 13 balls, but it was not enough to push SRH past the 200-run mark, finishing their innings at 190/9.

In response, LSG's chase got off to a rocky start as Aiden Markram fell early to Mohammed Shami, leaving the team at 15 for 1. However, Pooran and Mitchell Marsh quickly steadied the ship and launched a counterattack that left SRH reeling. Pooran was in sensational form, smashing 70 runs off just 26 balls, which included six fours and six sixes.

One of the highlights of Pooran's innings was his rapid-fire fifty, which he brought up in just 18 balls, showcasing his incredible striking ability. He dominated the SRH bowlers, particularly targeting Simarjeet Singh and Adam Zampa, as he hit them for a barrage of boundaries. Pooran's partnership with Marsh was crucial, as the duo added 116 runs for the second wicket in a mere 43 deliveries.

Mitchell Marsh also played a vital role, scoring 52 runs off 31 balls, hitting seven boundaries and two sixes. Their aggressive batting helped LSG reach 77 runs in the powerplay, setting a strong foundation for their chase.

Despite the loss of Pooran in the ninth over to Pat Cummins, who trapped him leg before wicket, LSG remained well ahead of the required run rate. Captain Rishabh Pant struggled to find his rhythm and was dismissed for 15 runs, but Abdul Samad provided the finishing touches with a blistering 22 runs off just 8 balls.

LSG completed the chase in just 16.1 overs, finishing at 193 for 5, with 23 balls to spare. This victory not only marked LSG's first win of the season but also showcased their batting depth and explosive capabilities.

After the match, Pooran expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, "It feels good to contribute to the team's success. I try to get into good positions and time the ball well. The pitch was beautiful for batting, and I was just focused on executing my skills." His remarks highlighted the confidence and synergy within the LSG squad as they look to build momentum in the tournament.

Shardul Thakur, named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling display, emphasized the importance of teamwork. "We had a plan to restrict their scoring, and it worked well today. Everyone contributed, and it’s great to start the season with a win," he said.

With this match, LSG has sent a strong message to the rest of the teams in the IPL 2025 season. Their combination of explosive batting and effective bowling could make them serious contenders as the tournament progresses. Fans are eagerly awaiting their next match, hoping for more fireworks from the likes of Pooran and Thakur.

As the IPL season unfolds, the Lucknow Super Giants will look to build on this victory and continue their quest for the championship. With a potent mix of talent and determination, they seem poised to make a significant impact this season.