The 13th match of IPL 2025 will see Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, as both teams look to secure important points in this fast-paced tournament.
Match Details: LSG vs PBKS
- Match: LSG vs PBKS, IPL 2025
- Date & Time: 1 April 2025, 7:30 PM (Local)
- Venue: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow
- Toss: LSG vs PBKS
Pitch Report: A Challenging Venue for Both Teams
Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium has been known for its challenging pitch conditions. In the past two IPL editions, this venue has seen the lowest first-innings average (165), lowest run rate (8.17), and second-lowest runs per wicket (24.53). These statistics suggest that bowlers can have a significant advantage here, with the conditions often favoring them over the batters.
The pitch will be red-soil based, and while it’s a large ground, this gives bowlers an opportunity to defend the shorter side of the ground. Dew has been less of a factor in recent days, which could benefit the bowlers. This may help LSG, who have struggled at home despite possessing a strong squad. They have won only seven out of 13 home games, which highlights that they need to improve their performance on home turf.
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Team Updates: LSG vs PBKS Squads
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
LSG will look to bounce back in their first home game of the season. They have an exciting squad with key players like Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, and Shardul Thakur, who are capable of turning the match in their favor. However, LSG’s main concern has been the inconsistency of their batting lineup, especially at home.
- Injury Update: Akash Deep is recovering from a back injury and may not feature in this match.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
PBKS have been in good form and arrive in Lucknow after a strong win in Ahmedabad. They have a balanced squad with power hitters like Shreyas Iyer, Marcus Stoinis, and Glenn Maxwell, who can change the course of the game in a matter of overs. However, PBKS will have to contend with the challenging Lucknow conditions, especially with their bowlers like Lockie Ferguson likely to play a crucial role.
- Injury Update: PBKS have no major injury concerns and have a full squad available.
Tactics and Key Matchups:
LSG’s Key Matchup:
- Nicholas Pooran has struggled at this venue with a strike rate lower than his usual standard. The vast boundary dimensions and the pitch conditions will make it important for Pooran to adjust and find his rhythm.
PBKS’s Key Matchup:
- Lockie Ferguson has a good record against Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran. His pace could be critical in controlling these dangerous batters from LSG.
Head-to-Head: LSG vs PBKS
In their previous encounters, LSG has had the upper hand with a 3-1 lead over PBKS. Last year, in Lucknow, LSG defeated PBKS by 21 runs, with Mayank Yadav picking up the Player of the Match award.
What to Expect:
The match will be a true test of both teams’ adaptability to the challenging pitch conditions. LSG, with their strong bowling attack, will look to take advantage of the conditions, while PBKS will be hoping to continue their winning form with a well-rounded squad. The game promises to be an exciting contest between the bat and ball, with both teams eager to secure important points early in the tournament.
Key Stats to Keep an Eye On:
- Shashank Singh has the second-highest strike rate in death overs (16-20) among Indian batters since 2024. His finishing ability will be crucial for PBKS.
- Arshdeep Singh has been excellent in the death overs, with nearly 38% of his deliveries being dot balls since 2024.
Conclusion: LSG vs PBKS
This match between Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings will be a thrilling contest. With both teams having their strengths and weaknesses, it will all come down to who can adapt better to the pitch conditions. LSG will be looking to use their home advantage, while PBKS will rely on their power hitters to take control.
Stay tuned innings360.com for an exciting IPL match between LSG and PBKS, as both teams look to make their mark in the 2025 season.
