Chennai, Apr 23: Marcus Stoinis’ game-winning 63-ball-124 not out against Chennai Super Kings was praised by Lucknow Super Giants captain KL Rahul, who thought the home team’s tally of 210 for 4 was at least 30 runs above-par on that specific Chepauk pitch.
In their IPL match on Tuesday, LSG defeated CSK by six wickets, although Stoinis’ exceptional effort overshadowed a magnificent century by CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Rahul, who has stated that strike rates in Twenty20 cricket are overrated, acknowledged that in the era of the “Impact Player,” a tough total of 180 might not be sufficient.
“Very exceptional (victory), particularly for that kind of game. We had the impression of being far behind the game in the pursuit. “Even managing to win feels remarkable,” Rahul remarked during the post-game awards ceremony.
Rahul stated there was little context for their victory over CSK in Lucknow given the completely different Chennai deck.
“These were not the same circumstances. They put pressure on the bowlers after getting off to a strong start. It didn’t seem like a 210 wicket to me.They did a great job at batting. I am grateful to Stoinis. It was amazing to watch him. It was intelligent batting as well as pure power. Rahul believes LSG management made a wise decision by sending Stoinis at No. 3, and they had to make a “brave” decision.
As a team, we aimed to be much bolder. We played three games, two at home and one away, when we were unable to score more than 170. In the top three, we required one power hitter. That was the way it was thinking.
Additionally, I’ve realized that in the past few years, T20 cricket has evolved and that 170-180 isn’t always enough. In the powerplay, you have to exert more effort.
You have more freedom since the Impact player provides you depth. It has been a while since I last played T20 cricket. When asked if Nicholas Pooran could play higher in the order, the captain replied that no position is set aside except for him and Quinton de Kock as openers.
“A set plan does not exist. With the exception of the openers, everyone is ready to go at any time. Pooran entered the game at three. I hope I’m awarded Fielder of the Year. The captain of CSK, Gaikwad, felt that dew had a significant impact in the second half of the match, notwithstanding his futile century.
“It was a bitter pill to swallow, but LSG finished the game strong. By the thirteenth over, we had the game under control, but props to Stoinis.
The dew had a significant role to play. The spinners were distracted from the game by it. The game may have been played more deeply. But it is a part of the game, you can’t control the uncontrollable.” Player of the match Stoinis said: “It is not just a go go. It was ebb and flow. There were some bowlers we targeted, some against whom we were cautious. Nicky Pooran played a good innings, Hooda also.
It came and went. You are always structuring on the inside. You seem to like certain bowlers more than others. PTI KHS KHS UNG.