The opening match of today’s IPL 2024 double-header features the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) locking horns with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Jaipur. All eyes will be on KL Rahul, the LSG skipper, as he makes his much-awaited return from injury to lead his team.
KL Rahul’s Fitness in Focus: RR vs LSG
KL Rahul‘s last outing for LSG was ten months ago, when he tore a tendon in his leg during a match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. He missed the entire remainder of the season and the subsequent Test series against England due to a quadriceps injury. With a clean bill of health now, his fitness and form will be under the scanner as he looks to hit the ground running against the Royals.
LSG need KL Rahul batting, leadership
Rahul’s value to LSG goes beyond just his captaincy. The presence of specialist wicket-keepers Quinton de Kock and Nicholas Pooran frees him to focus on his batting, an area where he excels. In LSG’s first two seasons, he has been their leading run-scorer, even captaining them to consecutive playoff appearances.
Sanju Samson looks to end Rajasthan Royals drought
Sanju Samson, the RR captain, will also be eager to prove his mettle. Just like his team, Samson started strong in IPL 2023 but faded away later.
Known for his inconsistency, he will be determined to deliver consistently throughout the season, especially if he harbors ambitions of winning the elusive IPL title for Royals and making a comeback to the Indian T20 World Cup squad.
Star-Studded Batting Line-Ups: RR vs LSG
Both teams boast impressive batting line-ups. RR has a top order of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, and Sanju Samson, bolstered by the power-hitting of Rovman Powell and Shimron Hetmyer. Their bowling attack features the wily spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal.
LSG counters with a batting order featuring the likes of Rahul, de Kock, Marcus Stoinis, and Nicholas Pooran. Their bowling attack will miss the injured English pacers Mark Wood and David Willey, but this presents an opportunity for their young Indian pace attack to shine. The spin department boasts of the experienced Amit Mishra and the promising Ravi Bishnoi.
Avesh Khan Faces Former Teammates
Adding spice to the contest is the presence of Avesh Khan, who has moved from LSG to RR this season. He will be keen to prove himself against his former teammates when he takes the field alongside seasoned pros like Trent Boult and Yuzvendra Chahal.
The match promises to be a high-octane encounter, with both teams eager to get their IPL 2024 campaign off to a winning start. The first ball is bowled at 3.30 PM IST.
