It has been an interesting season for the relative newcomers to the IPL --- Gujarat Titans and Lucknow SuperGiants. In their first season in 2022, both were the finalists. But both have kind of struggled since then (even though GT made the finals in 2023).
In 2025, it is a different story though. GT has better momentum than LSG so far. Their encounter this afternoon, at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, is between one looking to continue its momentum and another looking to find its momentum.
GT is currently at the top of the points table with four wins in five matches. Its net run rate of +1.413 is the best among all teams (DC though has won all its four matches, the only unbeaten team). LSG is in fifth spot with three wins in five matches. But it is coming off two consecutive victories against Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders, which should boost its confidence.
GT and LSG have faced each other five times since their inception in 2022. GT leads the rivalry with four wins, while LSG has managed only one victory.
Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan (the fastest to 1000 runs in IPL among Indians), and Jos Buttler have been consistent performers in the batting department. Washington Sundar, controversially dropped in the last match, won GT its contest against SRH earlier. The bowling trio of Mohammed Siraj, Sai Kishore, and Prasidh Krishna has collectively taken 28 wickets, putting pressure on opposition lineups.
Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran have been the backbone of LSG's batting. They have not only been consistent, but also in great striking rhythm. Their innings against KKR was jaw-dropping. Shardul Thakur and Digvesh Rathi have led the charge in the bowling department for LSG. Captain-batsman Rishabh Pant continuing batting woes is a major concern for LSG. The two wins in the last matches have taken the focus away from this problem area.
The Ekana Cricket Stadium is expected to help batters, with an average score of 195 this season. However, spinners could play a crucial role in the middle overs as the pitch tends to slow down. Both teams are in good form, making this a highly anticipated contest. GT's top-order stability and LSG's aggressive approach, it is an intriguing contest really.
Probable teams:
Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar
Lucknow SuperGiants: Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, David Miller, Abdul Samad, Shardul Thakur, Akash Deep, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Singh Rathi