Avesh Khan delivered a sensational performance in the final overs to thwart Rajasthan Royals’ bid for a comfortable victory in Jaipur on Saturday (April 19). The evening, which had started on a high with 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s impressive IPL debut, took a turn for the worse for the Royals as they suffered their fourth consecutive loss – marking their second consecutive collapse in a run chase.
The game was within Rajasthan’s grasp as they entered the final five overs, requiring just 46 runs with a well-set Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag at the crease. However, LSG’s remarkable comeback with the ball saw them limit Rajasthan to only 43 runs in that period.
The difference in the death overs was evident, with LSG outperforming Rajasthan Royals. LSG finished with 59/2, maintaining a run rate of 11.8, thanks to 2 fours and 5 sixes. In contrast, Rajasthan Royals managed only 43/3, with a run rate of 8.6, hitting 4 fours and just 1 six.
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Early Setback for LSG’s Key Batsmen
Lucknow Super Giants have depended on Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran for the bulk of their runs this season, but on this occasion, both were dismissed early. Marsh misjudged a delivery from Jofra Archer, skied the ball, and was caught.
Pooran, on the other hand, was cleverly outwitted by Sandeep Sharma, getting trapped LBW in the final over of the PowerPlay. Meanwhile, Aiden Markram stood firm at the other end, displaying solid form as he found the boundary consistently, keeping the scoreboard moving despite the loss of two key wickets.
LSG Fight Back After Early Setbacks
LSG faced intense pressure when Rishabh Pant’s poor run continued. Out of sorts, Pant failed to connect cleanly with a reverse sweep and ended up gloving the ball to the keeper, giving Wanindu Hasaranga his first wicket. This prompted LSG to bring in their impact sub, Ayush Badoni, to steady the innings. True to form, Badoni played with composure, while Markram added some much-needed momentum, launching back-to-back sixes off Hasaranga.
Badoni then began to unleash his full range, hitting consecutive boundaries off Sandeep, as LSG slowly started to recover. Markram, having passed fifty, added a third six, and the batting side gained significant momentum. Rajasthan Royals bowled three tight overs to keep LSG in check, but by then, the platform had been set for a strong finish.
Samad’s Explosive Finish
Despite LSG’s earlier fightback, Rajasthan Royals maintained the momentum they had built in the previous three overs. To add to LSG’s woes, both half-centurions—Markram and Badoni—were dismissed as the Royals applied relentless pressure.
At one point, it seemed like LSG wouldn’t even reach 160. With just 153 on the board at the end of the 19th over and David Miller struggling, it appeared the target would be modest. However, in the final over, Abdul Samad turned the game on its head, smashing four massive sixes to leave the bowling side stunned. What looked like a total of 160 became a formidable 180, thanks to Samad’s brilliant assault.
A Dream Start For The Royals
It was the kind of start that had everyone on their feet. Making his debut at just 14, Vaibhav Suryavanshi launched his first ball in the IPL for a massive six over covers.
As if that wasn’t enough, he followed it up with another huge six off Avesh Khan to make a dream debut. At the other end, Yashasvi Jaiswal was in sublime form, effortlessly handling both pace and spin. Markram, too, was greeted with back-to-back sixes, and the PowerPlay ended with another maximum from Jaiswal, setting the tone for a strong chase by the Royals.
Royals Remain Steady
The two left-handers continued their dominance after the PowerPlay. Ravi Bishnoi was welcomed into the attack with a couple of boundaries, and the 14-year-old Suryavanshi sent Digvesh Singh Rathi over the ropes. His impressive debut came to an end when Markram capitalized on the wicket’s conditions to have him stumped.
From that point, the Royals focused on maintaining a steady pace. Jaiswal slowed down slightly after reaching fifty, and Nitish Rana was dismissed early by Shardul Thakur. Riyan Parag then took charge, consistently hitting boundaries and reducing the target to a manageable 46 off 30 balls.
Stunning Turnaround For Giants
To avoid any further setbacks, Parag launched Avesh over long-on for a six, and in the same over, Jaiswal found the boundary as well. However, just when it seemed like the Royals were cruising, a dramatic twist unfolded. Avesh bowled a brilliant over, removing both Jaiswal and Parag with two perfectly executed full-length deliveries, turning the game on its head.
The equation was now 17 off 9 balls, and it was Shimron Hetmyer who responded with two crucial boundaries, bringing relief to the home side. At this point, it seemed like the Royals would still see the game through to victory. But Avesh had other plans. In the final over, he returned to haunt the Royals, delivering one yorker after another, reminiscent of Mitchell Starc’s performance against the same opposition just three days ago. His pinpoint accuracy kept the Royals from finding the boundary they desperately needed, and they fell short by just two runs.
What’s Next for Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants?
With five wins under their belt, LSG will be feeling confident as they prepare to host the formidable Delhi Capitals next on Tuesday. On the other hand, the Royals will look to capitalize on RCB’s poor home record this season to end their losing streak, as they head to Bengaluru for their clash on Thursday.
Read More: IPL 2025: PBKS vs RCB – Preview, Prediction, Starting XI and Where To Watch The Match LIVE
FAQs
Who played a key role in LSG’s dramatic win against Rajasthan Royals?
Avesh Khan was crucial in LSG’s victory, delivering a brilliant performance in the final overs, restricting Rajasthan Royals and helping his team defend a challenging total.
What was Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s IPL debut like?
At just 14 years old, Vaibhav Suryavanshi made an unforgettable IPL debut, hitting two massive sixes in his first two balls, showcasing incredible talent.
How did Rajasthan Royals’ chase falter in the match?
Despite a strong start by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag, Rajasthan Royals lost crucial wickets under pressure, with Avesh Khan’s brilliant bowling turning the game in LSG’s favor.
What sparked the turnaround for LSG in the death overs?
Abdul Samad’s explosive finish, hitting four sixes in the final over, turned the game around, helping LSG set a challenging total of 180 after struggling at 153.
What are the upcoming fixtures for LSG and Rajasthan Royals?
LSG will face Delhi Capitals at home on Tuesday, while Rajasthan Royals will look to break their losing streak against RCB in Bengaluru on Thursday.
