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Lucknow Super Giants vs Punjab Kings : A Preview and Fantasy

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  • Match – 13
  • Venue – EKANA Stadium, Lucknow
The Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow is set to host an exciting clash between the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 1, 2025, in the 13th match of the IPL 2025 season. With the tournament now in full swing, both teams are looking to solidify their positions after mixed starts. LSG come into this game with a win and a loss, while PBKS have made a strong statement with a high-scoring victory in their opener. This encounter promises a battle of strategies, firepower, and resilience as both sides aim to secure their second win of the campaign.

Team Form and Key Storylines

Lucknow Super Giants: LSG began their season with a heartbreaking one-wicket loss to Delhi Capitals but bounced back impressively by chasing down 191 against Sunrisers Hyderabad in just 16.1 overs. Nicholas Pooran has been their standout performer, smashing 70 off 26 balls in the last game, while new captain Rishabh Pant will be eager to lead from the front with the bat after modest returns of 0 and 15 so far. The Ekana Stadium, known for its bowler-friendly conditions, could play into the hands of their spinners like Ravi Bishnoi and Shardul Thakur, who has already picked up six wickets in two games. LSG will look to exploit their home advantage and maintain their momentum.
 
Punjab Kings: PBKS kicked off IPL 2025 with a bang, posting 243 for 5 and defeating Gujarat Titans by 11 runs in a thrilling contest. Captain Shreyas Iyer led from the front with an unbeaten 97 off 42 balls, signaling his intent to make a mark with his new franchise. Their batting lineup, featuring the likes of Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Shashank Singh, looks formidable, while their bowling attack, led by Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal, showed composure under pressure. Playing their second game of the season, PBKS will aim to carry their fearless approach to Lucknow, though the slower Ekana pitch might test their adaptability.

Pitch and Conditions

The Ekana Cricket Stadium has a reputation for favoring bowlers, particularly spinners, with an average first-innings T20 score of around 169 since 2023. The red-soil pitch often slows down as the game progresses, bringing slower bowlers into play. However, dew could be a factor in the evening, potentially aiding the team batting second by making it harder for spinners to grip the ball. Expect a balanced contest where a score of 160-170 could be competitive if defended well. Weather in Lucknow will be warm and humid, with no rain forecast, ensuring a full 40-over game.

Head-to-Head and Key Battles

In their IPL history, LSG and PBKS have faced off multiple times, with LSG holding a slight edge in recent encounters. Key battles to watch include:
 
  • Nicholas Pooran vs Yuzvendra Chahal: Pooran’s aggressive intent will be tested by Chahal’s crafty leg-spin, especially on a pitch that could assist turn.
  • Shreyas Iyer vs Ravi Bishnoi: Iyer’s ability to anchor and accelerate could be challenged by Bishnoi’s googlies in the middle overs.
  • Marcus Stoinis vs Shardul Thakur: Stoinis’ power-hitting will face Thakur’s variations, with the latter in fine form this season.

Team News

  • LSG: Aiden Markram might make way for Mitchell Marsh to open, allowing Pant to shift down the order. Their pace attack remains depleted with injuries, but Prince Yadav and Avesh Khan impressed in the last game.
  • PBKS: Lockie Ferguson could replace Azmatullah Omarzai after the latter’s expensive outing against GT, while Nehal Wadhera might feature as an impact substitute to bolster the middle order.
This match is finely poised, with PBKS’ explosive batting giving them a slight edge on paper. However, LSG’s familiarity with Ekana’s conditions and their bowling depth could level the playing field. If dew plays a role, the team chasing might have the upper hand. Expect a close contest, with PBKS potentially edging it 55-45 if their top order fires again.

Fantasy XI for LSG vs PBKS, IPL 2025 Match 13

Here’s a balanced Fantasy XI based on current form, pitch conditions, and likely impact:
 
  1. Prabhsimran Singh (PBKS) – Wicketkeeper: A dynamic opener who can set the tone early (Average: 30+, Strike Rate: 140+ in T20s).
  2. Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) – Batsman (Captain): In scintillating form with 97* in the last game, a safe captaincy pick for his consistency and leadership.
  3. Nicholas Pooran (LSG) – Batsman (Vice-Captain): Red-hot with 70 off 26 last match, thrives in the middle overs.
  4. Marcus Stoinis (PBKS) – All-Rounder: Offers batting firepower and handy overs, a dual-point contributor.
  5. Mitchell Marsh (LSG) – All-Rounder: Likely to open and bowl, providing versatility on a bowler-friendly track.
  6. Glenn Maxwell (PBKS) – All-Rounder: Due for a big score and can chip in with off-spin, a high-risk, high-reward pick.
  7. Shardul Thakur (LSG) – All-Rounder: Six wickets in two games, a must-have for his death-bowling prowess.
  8. Ravi Bishnoi (LSG) – Bowler: A wicket-taking spinner who excels at Ekana, likely to exploit the pitch.
  9. Yuzvendra Chahal (PBKS) – Bowler: A proven IPL performer, expected to thrive on a spin-friendly surface.
  10. Arshdeep Singh (PBKS) – Bowler: PBKS’ lead pacer with early breakthroughs and death-over skills.
  11. Prince Yadav (LSG) – Bowler: Impressed with 1/29 in the last game, a differential pick with upside.
Click here for complete schedule for IPL 2025

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