IPL 2024: Lucknow Super Giants' strongest predicted playing XI against Delhi Capitals, Match 26

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are set to take on Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 26 of the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League 2024. The two are scheduled to clash at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana International Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Friday, April 12. The home side will march into their fifth match of the season as a confident unit, thanks to their impressive run so far.

The KL Rahul-led side lost their opening match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) but bounced back in style as they won three matches on the trot. With a 33-run win over Gujarat Titans (GT) in their last encounter, LSG currently sit third on the points table with six points and a healthy net run rate of +0.775. They have been dominant at home and it will be a huge task for struggling Delhi to upset them.

DC are currently at the bottom of the points table, having lost four out of five matches. In their last match against Mumbai Indians (MI), DC bowlers conceded 234 runs in the first innings and barring Tristan Stubbs' heroics, they did not have much to gain. Given the current form of both the teams, LSG look like favourites to win the game, but expect a tough fight as DC hope to get back on track. 

Also Check: LSG vs DC Match Prediction - Who will win?

Here is the probable playing XI for Lucknow Super Giants against DC in IPL 2024, Match 26: 

Openers: Quinton de Kock, KL Rahul (c & wk)

This left-right opening combination has been inconsistent so far this season, registering just one 50-plus partnership. However, any of them will play their part in helping their team win the game. While de Kock will aim to score aggressively, Rahul will look to settle in and bat as long as possible.

But it is fair to point out that the LSG skipper has not been at his best this time around. He scored a half-century at a concerning strike rate in the first match but failed to carry on the momentum in the rest of the matches. On the other hand, the Proteas batter has played two good innings but needs to bring more consistency, especially with Kyle Mayers warming the bench.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Most Runs - Orange Cap Updated List

Middle-order: Deepak Hooda, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni

Known for his attacking style, Deepak Hooda has played just one match so far this season. However, Devdutt Padikkal's poor form highlights the need for Hooda to be included in the starting XI. Padikkal has not scored a single double-digit score in four matches and LSG will not be keen on giving him another chance.

Nicholas Pooran, LSG's pocket dynamo, is one of the most destructive batters in the middle order. The southpaw can easily adapt to the situations and take the game away from the opponents in quick time. Ayush Badoni is yet to showcase his potential in this edition but added a valuable 20 runs at an impressive strike rate that was crucial in LSG's victory in the last match.

Also Check: LSG vs DC Dream11 Prediction

All-rounders: Marcus Stoinis, Krunal Pandya

Marcus Stoinis failed to shine with the bat in the first two matches but seems like he found his rhythm as the tournament progressed. In the last match against GT, the Australian scored 58 runs, helping the team to achieve a competitive total. However, LSG are yet to utilize his all-around abilities and the right-hander will be looking to play a maximum role in the upcoming matches.

Krunal Pandya has been a consistent performer for LSG in the past and the spin all-rounder has continued to do so this season. His 22-ball 42 with the bat against Punjab Kings (PBKS) and 3/11 with the bowl against GT were instrumental in their victory. Krunal will be looking to repeat similar exploits against DC at their home ground.

Check Here: LSG sv DC Live Score, Match 26

Bowlers: Ravi Bishnoi, Yash Thakur, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mayank Yadav

Ravi Bishnoi will be set to lead the spin attack and he will be assisted by Krunal to tighten the screws in the middle overs. In the most recent match, the right-arm spinner grabbed a wicket in two overs at an economy of just four. Lucknow Stadium has more on offer for spinners and Bishnoi will aim to continue his rich form.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Most Wickets - Purple Cap Updated List

LSG’s pace attack consists of Yash Thakur, Naveen-ul-Haq and Mayank Yadav. Thakur was the hero of LSG in their stunning victory against GT. The 25-year-old bagged the maiden fifer of the season. Mayank Yadav is the new pace sensation in town. The young right-arm speedster recorded the fastest delivery of the season and also claimed two back-to-back Player of the Match awards. Afghan seamer Naveen is picking up wickets but at the same time needs to bring a regulator in leaking runs.

IPL 2024: LSG's Probable Playing XI against DC, Match 26

Quinton de Kock, KL Rahul (c & wk), Deepak Hooda, Marcus Stoinis, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Ravi Bishnoi, Yash Thakur, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mayank Yadav

Impact Substitute: Manimaran Siddharth