LSG vs PBKS IPL 2025: In what promises to be another exciting encounter in IPL 2025, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have won the toss and opted to bowl first against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on a humid evening in Lucknow. With the weather playing spoilsport in recent days and the pitch under covers for extended periods, Rishabh Pant’s decision to field first may prove to be tactically sound.
Toss & Captains Speak
“We’ll bowl first,” declared LSG captain Rishabh Pant at the toss. “It looks like a surface that might hold up a bit. The top seems a little loose, and there’s some moisture underneath due to the rain. We’ll try to take early advantage. It’s important to keep things simple, back the youngsters, and let the game unfold from there,” Pant added, emphasizing the team’s focus on nurturing young talent and maintaining clarity under pressure.
Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer wasn’t too bothered about losing the toss. “Honestly, we were looking to bowl first as well,” Iyer said. “The wicket’s been under covers for two days, and the grass is thicker than usual. There’s bound to be some movement early on. But we’re up for the competition. The aim is to stay positive, support each other, and enjoy each other’s success,” he noted. Iyer confirmed that Marcus Stoinis would be featuring in the match, adding a strong all-round option for PBKS.
Impact Substitutes
Both teams named a flexible list of Impact Players, a strategic weapon in modern T20 cricket.
Punjab Kings Impact Subs:
Vijaykumar Vyshak, Harpreet Brar, Praveen Dubey, Suryansh Shedge, Xavier Bartlett
Lucknow Super Giants Impact Subs:
Ravi Bishnoi, Mitchell Marsh, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Shahbaz Ahmed
These choices reflect the depth in each side’s bench strength, with match-winners waiting in the wings should the situation demand their inclusion.
Playing XIs: A Mix of Firepower and Promise
Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI):
Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (w/c), Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, David Miller, Akash Maharaj Singh, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav
LSG’s batting lineup is both dynamic and experienced, led by the aggressive pairing of Markram and Pooran, with the firepower of David Miller in the middle and the consistency of Ayush Badoni and Abdul Samad. Their bowling unit features pace sensations like Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan, while young Digvesh Singh Rathi and Akash Maharaj bring fresh energy to the squad.
Punjab Kings (Playing XI):
Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer (c), Josh Inglis (w), Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh
PBKS have a balanced XI with power at the top and all-round strength in the middle. Captain Iyer and Shashank Singh offer solidity, while the likes of Inglis and Stoinis can swing momentum quickly. In the bowling department, Arshdeep Singh and Chahal remain their key men, backed by overseas seamers Marco Jansen and Omarzai.
Match Context
With the playoffs race tightening, this clash holds significance for both sides. LSG will be looking to capitalize on home conditions and build momentum, while PBKS aim to bounce back from recent inconsistencies.
Rishabh Pant’s leadership and his calm demeanor under pressure will be pivotal, while Shreyas Iyer’s tactical nous and resilience are expected to guide a relatively younger PBKS outfit.
Match Info:
Match: Lucknow Super Giants vs Punjab Kings
Date: May 4, 2025
Venue: Lucknow
Time: 7:30 PM IST
Toss: Lucknow Super Giants won the toss and elected to bowl first
