Lucknow, April 12: In a high-octane IPL 2025 Match 26 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium (B Ground), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) chased down a stiff target of 181 with three balls to spare, defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) by 6 wickets in a nail-biting finish. The chase was powered by explosive half-centuries from Nicholas Pooran and Aiden Markram, keeping LSG’s campaign on track as they claimed a crucial win at home.
Gujarat Titans Set a Competitive Target
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, GT posted a respectable 180/6 in their 20 overs. Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a classy 60 off 38 balls, featuring crisp drives and elegant stroke play. He was ably supported by Sai Sudharsan, who continued his consistent run with 56 off 37 deliveries, marking his fourth fifty of the season.
Despite the solid start, GT couldn’t fully capitalize in the death overs, thanks to disciplined bowling from LSG. Shardul Thakur picked up 2/34, while Ravi Bishnoi took 2/36, curbing the scoring rate effectively.
LSG’s Chase: Pooran and Markram Shine Bright
Chasing 181 under pressure is never easy, but LSG handled it with composure. While the top order lost a couple of early wickets, Aiden Markram held firm with a stroke-filled 58 off just 31 balls, anchoring the innings.
The real fireworks, however, came from Nicholas Pooran, who smashed a brutal 61 off 34 balls, turning the tide in Lucknow’s favor. His power-packed knock included towering sixes and precise placement that left GT bowlers searching for answers.
A calm and composed finish by Ayush Badoni (28 off 20)* ensured LSG crossed the finish line in 19.3 overs, securing victory with 6 wickets in hand.
Bowling Highlights
For Gujarat, Prasidh Krishna impressed with figures of 2/26, troubling the batters with pace and accuracy. Rashid Khan and Washington Sundar chipped in with one wicket each but lacked the impact to stop LSG’s surge in the final overs.
Key Moments of the Match:
- Shubman Gill’s graceful fifty set the tone for GT.
- Sudharsan’s fourth fifty of the season confirmed his top form.
- Nicholas Pooran’s explosive innings shifted momentum completely.
- Markram’s balance of aggression and stability was crucial in the middle overs.
- Ayush Badoni’s finishing touch sealed the deal for LSG.
What This Means for the Points Table
With this win, LSG climbs higher on the IPL 2025 points table, bolstering their net run rate and strengthening their position in the playoff race. Gujarat Titans, meanwhile, will look to regroup after another close defeat.
Both teams will now turn their focus to upcoming fixtures with an eye on consistency. LSG’s form at home is proving vital, while GT may need to reassess their death-over strategies if they hope to bounce back strong.
