Lucknow, 08 May (H.S.): After enduring six consecutive defeats in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) finally found their winning ways. In a rain-affected match played on Thursday at Ekana Stadium, Lucknow defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 9 runs, securing a crucial victory. Due to rain, the match was reduced to 19-19 overs.

Having lost the toss and batting first, Lucknow posted 209 for 3 in 19 overs. The revised target was subsequently adjusted to 213 runs. In response, Bengaluru could only manage 203 for 6 in their allotted overs.

Mitchell Marsh emerged as the standout performer for Lucknow, playing a explosive innings of 111 runs. He struck 9 fours and 9 sixes during his knock. Marsh adopted an aggressive approach from the outset, maintaining relentless pressure on Bengaluru's bowlers throughout. Nicholas Pooran contributed 38 runs, while captain Rishabh Pant remained not out on 32.

Josh Hazlewood, Krunal Pandya, and Rasikh Salam Dar claimed one wicket each for Bengaluru.

Bengaluru's Chase Falls Short

Bengaluru got off to a poor start while chasing the target, losing Virat Kohli and Jacob Bethell during the powerplay itself.

Captain Rajat Patidar then fought valiantly with a gritty 50-run innings, keeping his team in the contest through a crucial partnership with Devdutt Padikkal.

In the final overs, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, and Romario Shepherd scored quick runs but fell short of the victory target.

Young Bowler Turns Match

Young Lucknow pacer Prince Yadav delivered a match-winning bowling performance, claiming 3 crucial wickets. He dismissed key Bengaluru batsmen Virat Kohli, Jitesh Sharma, and Devdutt Padikkal, decisively turning the game in Lucknow's favor.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar