By Chirag - May 04, 2025 02:01 PM
The IPL 2025 season continues to heat up as Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Sunday, May 4, at the scenic HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. This encounter holds great significance with both teams aiming to strengthen their playoff chances.
Earlier this season, Punjab had the upper hand when these sides met at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. PBKS won by eight wickets in just 16.2 overs after chasing down a score of 172 with incredible ease. As things stand, Punjab sit slightly ahead in the standings with six wins and three losses from 10 matches, collecting 13 points. Lucknow, on the other hand, have a balanced record of five wins and five defeats from the same number of games, giving them 10 points so far.
With Punjab riding high on their recent victory over Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow looking to bounce back after a loss to Mumbai Indians, this clash promises high-intensity cricket. On that note, let’s take a look at three players who could shine with the bat in today’s match.
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Nicholas Pooran has been the standout performer with the bat for Lucknow this season. Amassing 404 runs in 10 matches, he boasts an impressive average of 44.88 and an explosive strike rate of 203.01. With four half-centuries to his name, Pooran has been instrumental in providing LSG with firepower in the middle overs.
Though he managed 27 runs off 15 balls in their previous outing against Mumbai Indians, his blistering knock included a boundary and three sixes, reflecting his intent. As Lucknow aim to get back to winning ways, Pooran’s role becomes even more crucial. If he gets going today, PBKS will certainly have their hands full.
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Punjab’s young opener, Prabhsimran Singh, has shown remarkable consistency this season. In 10 innings, he has scored 346 runs at an average of 34.60, maintaining an excellent strike rate of 165.55. His tally includes three half-centuries, underlining his ability to deliver impactful starts.
In his last appearance against Chennai Super Kings, Prabhsimran scored a brisk 54 off 36 deliveries, hitting five fours and three sixes at a strike rate of 150. As Punjab return to their home ground in Dharamsala, the opener will be eager to set the tone once again. His performance at the top will be vital in laying a solid foundation for PBKS against a competitive LSG attack.
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Shreyas Iyer, the captain of PBKS, has been playing at a very high level this season. Iyer has become Punjab's top run scorer with 360 runs in 10 games at an average of 51.42 and a scorching strike rate of 180.90. His tally includes four fifties, showcasing his consistency and ability to anchor innings.
His latest knock against CSK was a captain’s innings—72 runs off just 41 balls, decorated with five boundaries and four sixes. Riding high on confidence, Iyer will be keen to continue his purple patch in this crucial encounter. Given the stakes, the right-hander will look to inspire his team with another commanding performance.
With both teams fighting for a spot in the playoffs, expect a thrilling battle in Dharamsala. All eyes will be on these three batters, who have the potential to light up the contest with their strokeplay.
Also Read: LSG vs PBKS IPL 2025: Head to Head, Playing11 & AI Prediction
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