Jaipur, April 19, 2025 — The IPL 2025 season delivered another heart-racing finish as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) held their nerve to defeat Rajasthan Royals (RR) by a mere 2 runs in Match 36 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. In a match that swung like a pendulum till the final over, Aiden Markram’s all-round brilliance and Ayush Badoni’s gritty half-century proved to be the difference.
Markram, Badoni Shine in LSG’s Competitive Total
After winning the toss and opting to bat first on a two-paced surface, LSG got off to a steady start. However, it was Aiden Markram who truly anchored the innings with a fluent 66 off 45 deliveries, laced with five boundaries and two sixes. His composed knock helped LSG rebuild after early pressure.
Youngster Ayush Badoni continued his good form, crafting a composed 50 off 34 balls. His quick running between the wickets and clever shot placement gave LSG momentum during the middle overs.
Despite some resistance from Rajasthan’s bowling unit — with Wanindu Hasaranga grabbing 2 for 31 and Tushar Deshpande keeping things tight with 1 for 26 — LSG managed to post a competitive total of 180/5 in their 20 overs.
Jaiswal’s Masterclass Falls Short
Chasing 181, Rajasthan Royals looked in control for large parts of their innings, thanks to a masterclass from Yashasvi Jaiswal. The stylish left-hander struck a sublime 74 off 52 balls, keeping the scoreboard ticking with boundaries and quick singles. His confidence at the top laid the perfect platform for RR.
Riyan Parag played a steady hand with his 39 off 26 deliveries, while debutant Vaibhav Suryavanshi impressed with a fiery 34 off 20 balls, nearly taking RR over the line.
However, the Super Giants’ bowling unit, led by Avesh Khan (3/37), struck at crucial intervals. Markram also chipped in with the ball, claiming the important wicket of Parag and stalling RR’s middle-overs momentum.
Final Over Drama
With 13 runs required off the final over, Rajasthan had Abdul Samad at the crease. The big-hitter smashed 30* off just 10 balls, threatening to snatch victory. But Shardul Thakur held his nerve, executing wide yorkers and slower balls to perfection, conceding only 10 runs in the last over.
Match Summary
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – 180/5 (20 Overs)
- Aiden Markram – 66 (45)
- Ayush Badoni – 50 (34)
- Wanindu Hasaranga – 2/31 (4)
- Tushar Deshpande – 1/26 (4)
Rajasthan Royals (RR) – 178/5 (20 Overs)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – 74 (52)
- Riyan Parag – 39 (26)
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi – 34 (20)
- Avesh Khan – 3/37 (4)
- Shardul Thakur – 1/34 (3)
- Aiden Markram – 1/18 (2)
This thrilling win propels LSG up the points table, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Meanwhile, RR will rue missed opportunities but can take heart from their fighting spirit. With the tournament heating up, every run and wicket counts — and this match was a perfect reminder of that.
