In Match 39 of IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to clash with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Chepauk Stadium. This crucial game could be a turning point in the season for both teams, as they currently stand close in the points table.
CSK holds the 4th position with a net run rate (NRR) of 0.529, while LSG is right behind in 5th place with an NRR of 0.123. Each team has won 4 out of their 7 matches, accumulating 8 points each so far.
The rivalry between these two teams is closely knitted, LSG with two wins against CSK’s one out of their 4 previous encounters, and one match ending with no result. Adding to the excitement, two of the previous victories were in high-scoring games, each reaching over 200 runs.
This match will be more exciting as CSK look to avenge their last defeat in the previous match against LSG.
Both teams having previously posted 200+ totals, and both featuring power-hitters like Dube, Dhoni and Pooran who excel in hitting sixes, the match is likely to exceed 14.5 sixes overall.
The betting tip is...
Total Sixes in the Match Over 14.5
Shivam Dube stands out as a key batsman, having amassed 245 runs across 7 matches with an impressive average of 49.00 and a strike rate of 157.05. He is closely followed by captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has scored 241 runs, averaging 40.00 with a strike rate of 130.
Although Rachin Ravindra's form has dipped recently, Jadeja and MS Dhoni continue to contribute significantly, scoring quickly when given the opportunity. Dhoni, in particular, has been remarkable recently, and a strike rate of 311 against LSG in past encounters.
On the bowling front, Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana have been pivotal, claiming 11 and 9 wickets respectively. Moeen Ali, having played in the last match, displayed his capability to strike effectively, adding depth to CSK's batting and bowling lineup.
The team has performed well in both the departments.
Predicted Lineup: Gaikwad (c), Rachin, Rahane, M Ali, Dube, Jadeja, Dhoni (wk), Chahar, Deshpande, Mustafizur, Pathirana
Captain KL Rahul leads the pack with 286 runs from 7 matches, boasting an average of 41 and a strike rate of 143.00. Nicholas Pooran and Quinton de Kock follow closely, scoring 246 and 228 runs respectively, with Pooran's striking rate of 164.00 standing out as particularly aggressive.
The trio has shown excellent form this season, with Rahul's 82 off 53 balls in their recent match against CSK and de Kock's fifty playing crucial roles in securing a comfortable victory.
However, LSG's bowling lineup has shown some weaknesses. Pacer Mayank Yadav, returning for this match after playing 3 earlier games, has impressed with his economy, ranking third best this season.
Yash Thakur leads in wickets, with Mayank and Mohsin, who have played only a limited number of matches, showing the need for stronger pace options in the squad.
Mayank Yadav will make his return from injury.
Predicted Lineup: De Kock, KL Rahul (c/wk), Stoinis, Hooda, Pooran, Badoni, K Pandya, Henry, Bishnoi, Mayank, Yash
CSK's batting lineup, led by Shivam Dube and Ruturaj Gaikwad, is in robust form, and their ability to use home conditions will be crucial. Additionally, MS Dhoni's exceptional strike rate against LSG and this season could be a game-changer in tight situations.
The bowling duo of Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana hold key wickets, and will likely exploit LSG's comparatively weaker bowling.
With hitters on both sides, ropes will be cleared frequently but considering the match is at Chepauk Stadium where CSK traditionally plays well, all signs point to a strong possibility of a CSK victory in this encounter.