‘Gambhir is always an advantage for us, he knows Eden Gardens’ - Morne Morkel speaks ahead of LSG’s crucial game against KKR

In order to qualify for the playoffs of the ongoing IPL 2023, Lucknow Super Giants cannot afford to drop any points when they take on Kolkata Knight Riders on May 20 at the iconic Eden Gardens. The Krunal Pandya-led side is currently third on the IPL points table and if things go in their favour, the team can very well finish in the top two. However, if it doesn’t, RCB and MI can topple them on the points table and rule them out of the playoffs race.

Thus, the match against KKR is very crucial for the Lucknow-based side. Meanwhile, ahead of taking on the two-time champions, LSG bowling coach Morne Morkel stated that the team has the advantage of having Gautam Gambhir in the dugout. Notably, Gambhir spent six years in the KKR camp and is very well accustomed to the conditions at Eden Gardens, which Morne feels will help the LSG players prepare well.

“Gambhir is always an advantage for us. He played for KKR, he knows Eden Gardens, and he was the two-time champion captain. So, I think it's an advantage, and hopefully, we could make it,” the former South Africa international was quoted as saying by India Today.

“Look we didn't talk about this thing much. We need to do is to play and win. So, qualifying is one thing. But playing final is the goal. Kolkata, Eden Gardens is always a high-scoring ground. This ground has a history. So hopefully we could make it,” the 38-year-old added.

Morne Morkel lauds Krunal Pandya’s captaincy skill

In the absence of KL Rahul, Krunal Pandya has done a commendable job in helping LSG remain in the race to qualify for the IPL playoffs. Morkel appreciated that and praised Krunal's exceptional leadership qualities in the ongoing season.

“He is exceptional. He is a strong leader, leading from the front. Captain went to bowl during tough situations. He is having a crucial role," the former cricketer said.