Rajasthan face in-form LSG in blockbuster clash

Sanju Samson

The mega players auction ahead of IPL-15 may have created havoc for traditional favourites like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, but for some like Rajasthan Royals, it was a massive fillip, providing an opportunity to change their fortunes.

For the last three seasons, Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural IPL champions, have been laggards on the points table, finishing at the bottom in 2020 and No.7 in 2019 and 2021.

RR, a different outfit

But in this IPL, RR look a different outfit. Today's clash between them and Lucknow Super Giants has all the makings of a blockbuster contest at the Wankhede Stadium tonight.

It is a clash of equals, especially with the way both teams have performed so far. Barring a narrow loss to Gujarat Titans in their opening game on March 28, LSG have convincingly won their next three games where they have beaten defending champions Chennai Super Kings, 2020 IPL finalists Delhi Capitals and 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad.

RR began with a bang, beating Sunrisers Hyderabad in their opener and five-time winners Mumbai Indians. However, a tactical blunder saw Sanju Samson & Co go down to Royal Challengers Bangalore in their last game at Wankhede on Tuesday.

RR's pace spearhead Trent Boult insisted on getting the basics right on the eve of their clash. "LSG are a quality side. There are a lot of good cricketers with whom I have played with and against. It is such an exciting game and for us, it is about doing the basics right, and hopefully getting some momentum. [We are] looking forward to the game," Boult said in the virtual pre-match press conference on Saturday.

In the last match played at the Wankhede, the pitch looked tricky for strokeplay when RR were put in to bat. The wicket seemed to ease a bit later in the second half as Dinesh Karthik (44 not out) and Shahbaz Ahmed (45) won the game for RCB from nowhere.

Boult hoping for swing

Boult, who has some experience of bowling at the Wankhede during his last stint with the Mumbai Indians, is hoping for the surface to aid swing. "Traditionally, a good wicket for batting, but enjoyable for pace bowlers as well. It was slightly dry from what I thought it was going to be in the last match against RCB. As the tournament goes on, I presume the wickets are going to tire slightly and the spinners are going to come into play a bit more. The dew is going to stay there and the ball is going to skid on nicely. I am hoping that the ball should keep swinging around for a few weeks more," he said.