Follow UsLucknow Super Giants (LSG) were completely outplayed in their match against Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 22 (Tuesday), and they perhaps have themselves to blame. They made one bad decision after another, leading to their fourth loss of the season. From 99/1 in the 12th over, they managed just 159/6, which clearly was not good enough.
They made a couple of dicey calls: One was not to include an in-form Ayush Badoni in the XI, and then Rishabh Pant came in at seven when there were just two balls left.
Former South Africa wicketkeeper Mark Boucher reckons such weird decisions cost LSG on the night. "Markram and Pooran got out, and then some weird decisions were made in the middle stages," Boucher told Star Sports after the match.
"We discussed how Badoni should have been in the starting lineup, as he's one of the in-form batters. Maybe Samad could have been on the bench. While I understand the reasoning behind their decisions, it's important to give your best batters the opportunity to score runs.
"Rishabh, whom we wanted to bat at number six, ended up batting at seven. They're making a lot of changes right now, which could probably be managed better. It does seem like the captain is under pressure."
Former India captain Anil Kumble believes that the LSG team, support staff, and management need to have honest conversations with each other.
"I think they have the right team- they've shown that. The opening partnership and the top three have been in brilliant form. It really comes down to leadership within the group. Yes, the support staff plays a role, but ultimately, it's on the players," Kumble said.
"It's about how well they come together, sit around the table, and have honest conversations. There were moments when we questioned why Rishabh Pant wasn't batting in a certain position and why those changes were made.
"What was the reason? There didn't seem to be a need. They were coming off a win, and yet changes were made. That's why it's crucial for the leadership group to sit down and sort things out."
LSG are currently fifth in the IPL 2025 points table. They will face the Mumbai Indians (MI) next on April 27 (Sunday) in Mumbai.