Lucknow Survive A ‘ Rinku Onslaught ‘…Yet Again

IPL 16 : Kolkata  Knight Riders (KKR) vs Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Match 68 : Kolkata

Some Nostalgia

It was the 18th of May 2022 at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, when Rinku Singh staged a remarkable fight back against LSG scoring a blistering 40 off just 15 balls. Had it not been for a stupendous catch from Evin Lewis, Rinku Singh might have pulled off a tremendous victory for KKR. However LSG had held on  to their nerves to record a close victory by just 2 runs. History repeated itself on the 20th of May a year later at the iconic Eden Gardens.

Terrific Rinku, But LSG Hold on 

A much improved Rinku Singh, single handedly almost upstaged LSG yet again. The clean hitting from Rinku, displaying nerves of steel  and an unshakeable temperament smashed an unbeaten 67 off 33 balls. But LSG still held on. The dangling nerves barely settled with just a 1 run win, but a win none the  less and a well deserved qualification for the playoffs, second year running. Rinku Singh’s effort though went in vain, he has been the toast of this year’s IPL without an iota of doubt and I strongly believe he should be inducted into the Indian Team atleast in the White ball format much sooner than later. 

Nawabs of the Resolute Kind

LSG (who had donned Mohan Bagan colours for the game) heaved a massive sigh of relief to stay afloat in the tournament. They too have fought hard and have shown some great resolve. (Nicholas Pooran once again put in a power packed performance with a classy 58 to ensure a fighting score for the Nawabs). The team comaraderie looks great with each player trying his best to perform.  This is great news for Lucknow and I am certain they won’t be push overs in the playoffs. The captaincy of Krunal Pandya too,  post KL Rahul’s injury, looks extremely purposeful and focussed. Every player in the team has emerged with valuable contributions at some point or the other in the tournament, which has helped them win some close games.  This is such an advantage and augurs well for the unit.

CSK in the Mix

Chennai Super Kings too qualified yesterday after their thumping win against a listless Delhi side. CSK in the Play  offs are dangerous and are one of the favourites now to win the trophy,  purely on the basis of their pedigree and leadership. Moreso with the playoffs  scheduled to be held in Chennai, CSK shall be very difficult to dislodge. 

An Intriguing Sunday Today 

With one place remaining to be grabbed for the playoffs and 3 teams in the running, the matches today are going to be that more interesting with the scenario still ajar with several permutations and combinations. MI and RCB have to win to stake claim. RR too have a mathematical possibility. Who knows what’s instore for us today. A highly intriguing finish is on the cards.

Let’s see who triumphs, who makes it to the playoffs and who perishes.

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Featured Image : Rinku Singh and Nicholas Pooran/ pic courtesy Crictamil