Lucknow Super Giants dealt a significant blow to Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2026 playoff hopes with a commanding seven-wicket victory at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Friday, powered by a breathtaking 90 off 38 balls from Mitchell Marsh. The Australian all-rounder’s explosive innings helped LSG comfortably chase down a target of 188 with 20 balls to spare.

Marsh dominated the chase from the outset, smashing nine fours and seven sixes in a brutal display of power-hitting. Opening alongside Josh Inglis, Marsh ensured Lucknow maintained a rapid scoring rate throughout the innings as the pair dismantled Chennai’s bowling attack during the powerplay. His aggressive strokeplay removed any pressure from the chase and left CSK struggling to regain control.

The match effectively tilted in LSG’s favour after a blistering opening partnership that exposed Chennai’s inconsistent bowling lengths. Even after Marsh departed short of a century, Lucknow remained firmly ahead of the required rate. Nicholas Pooran then added the finishing touches with a quickfire cameo as the hosts completed the chase comfortably and strengthened their position in the tournament standings.

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Earlier, Chennai Super Kings posted 187 for five after recovering from an early collapse triggered by left-arm pacer Akash Singh. The LSG bowler produced an impressive spell of 3 for 26, dismissing Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, and Urvil Patel to leave CSK under pressure in the first half of their innings. His disciplined hard-length bowling prevented Chennai’s top order from settling.

CSK’s recovery was led by Kartik Sharma, who played a composed yet aggressive knock of 71 from 42 deliveries, striking six fours and five sixes. He stitched together a valuable 70-run partnership with Dewald Brevis, helping Chennai rebuild after their shaky start. Shivam Dube later provided momentum in the death overs with an unbeaten 32 off just 16 balls, lifting CSK to a competitive total.

Lucknow captain Rishabh Pant had earlier won the toss and elected to field first, a decision that paid dividends through disciplined bowling and an explosive batting response. The defeat leaves Chennai Super Kings facing increasing pressure in the playoff race, while Lucknow Super Giants signed off with one of their most complete performances of the season despite already being out of contention.

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