LSG’s Injury Nightmare – Can Delhi Capitals Take Full Advantage?
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) take on Delhi Capitals (DC) today at the Dr. YSR ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. However, their preparations have been thrown into chaos with one setback after another. Injuries have left their bowling attack in shambles, raising serious concerns about their ability to compete against a Delhi side eager to pounce on their weaknesses.
LSG’s Bowling in Tatters – Injury Woes Pile Up
Lucknow’s bowling unit has taken a major hit ahead of their IPL 2025 clash. Mayank Yadav, the young speedster known for his 150 kph deliveries, is sidelined with a toe injury while recovering from a back issue. His return is unlikely until the tournament’s final week. The situation worsened with Mohsin Khan ruled out for the entire season, forcing LSG to bring in Shardul Thakur as a replacement.
Avesh Khan and Akash Deep have also been dealing with injuries, leaving them unavailable for selection. Avesh has been struggling with a knee issue, while Akash Deep is still recovering from a back injury. With so many key pacers missing, LSG now finds itself relying on a largely inexperienced Indian bowling attack, with the likes of Arshin Kulkarni and Hangargekar expected to fill the void. Head coach Justin Langer acknowledged the challenge ahead and emphasized the need for quick tactical adjustments.
Head-to-Head: LSG vs. DC
Historically, LSG has had the upper hand in this matchup, winning three of the five encounters, while DC has secured two victories. The highest total recorded in these clashes is 208 by DC, while LSG’s best effort has been 195. On the other end of the spectrum, DC’s lowest total stands at 143, while LSG’s lowest against them is 167.
Given LSG’s depleted squad, DC will view this as a prime opportunity to improve their record and even the head-to-head tally.
Delhi Capitals Smell Blood – Can They Capitalize?
Delhi Capitals enter this fixture with a mixed run of form, winning just two of their five matches so far this season. However, with LSG struggling to put together a full-strength team, this could be the perfect chance for them to bounce back.
Axar Patel, now leading the side, has a crucial role in guiding his team through this challenge. The inclusion of Mitchell Starc and T Natarajan has strengthened DC’s bowling lineup, giving them an edge against LSG’s shaky batting order. Axar, speaking before the match, stressed the importance of adapting to situations, stating that execution will be key to success. With a more stable squad at his disposal, he will be looking to pressurize an already struggling LSG side.
Players to Watch – Key Performers Who Could Decide the Match
Faf du Plessis will be a major player for DC. A seasoned campaigner with over 4,500 IPL runs, he has been one of the most consistent top-order batters in IPL history. Having played a key role in Chennai Super Kings’ title-winning campaigns in 2018 and 2021, he later led Royal Challengers Bangalore to two playoff finishes before being picked up by Delhi Capitals for INR 2 Crore. As DC’s vice-captain, his leadership and experience will be vital, especially against an LSG side struggling with injuries.
On the other side, Rishabh Pant remains the biggest threat for LSG. The attacking left-hander has a history of dismantling bowling attacks, with his best IPL season coming in 2018, where he smashed 684 runs at a strike rate of 173.60. In the IPL 2024 season, he played 13 matches and scored 446 runs, with a highest score of 88. If LSG is to have any chance of overcoming their injury crisis, Pant will need to play a match-defining innings.
Can LSG Overcome the Odds, or Will DC Dominate?
With a depleted bowling attack and inexperienced replacements, LSG faces an uphill battle. If their young pacers fail to deliver, this could turn into a one-sided affair. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals will be eager to seize the moment and secure a crucial win.
Will LSG defy the odds and put up a fight, or will DC make them pay for their misfortune? The stage is set for a fascinating contest as IPL 2025 continues to deliver high-stakes drama.
