Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) set a new milestone in Indian Premier League (IPL) history when they scored the second-highest total of 257 runs in their match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali on Friday, April 28. Despite KL Rahul's poor form, the other batters in the Lucknow line-up played their part, hitting 14 sixes along the way.
Former England captain Eoin Morgan praised the team's performance while doing his punditry on JioCinema, acknowledging the challenge the batters faced without Rahul's usual contributions. He commended the team's powerful line-up and the players who stepped up to fill the gap.
"Not easy at all, and for various reasons. KL hasn't been at his very best with the bat but he would give up all the runs he's scored through the tournament if Lucknow Super Giants go on to win. It's good to see when one of your best players and leaders isn't performing, other guys are stepping up," said Eoin Morgan.
Morgan specifically mentioned the performances of Kyle Mayers and Marcus Stoinis, who led the team's scoring with rapid half-centuries, allowing Ayush Badoni to shine with his 43 off 24 balls. Nicholas Pooran also seized the opportunity to contribute with his 45 off 19 balls.
Former India cricketer Parthiv Patel defended KL Rahul's consistency, stating that he had been scoring runs despite criticism of his strike rate. Patel also noted the team's balance and potential for further improvement with Deepak Hooda's return to form.
"When Ayush Badoni is batting, he does it in a floating role while performing. You have two proven finishers in Stoinis and Nicholas Pooran. They have bowlers, as we saw today, with nine bowlers bowling. Everyone can do something or the other. If Deepak Hooda can find some form, they'll be a complete side at the top of the tournament," said Parthiv Patel.
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