Pooran’s & Marsh's Blazing Knock Seals 4-Run Win for LSG vs KKR
Date: April 8, 2025 Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata Result: Lucknow Super Giants won by 4 runs
The IPL 2025 continues to deliver edge-of-the-seat action, and today’s match between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was no exception. In a high-scoring spectacle at Eden Gardens, LSG held their nerve in the final over to beat the home side KKR by just 4 runs, making it one of the most exciting matches of the season so far.
LSG’s Batting Brilliance: Pooran & Marsh Lead the Charge
After winning the toss, LSG captain decided to bat first on a flat Eden Gardens pitch. The decision paid off handsomely as the Super Giants piled on a massive 238/3 in 20 overs, showcasing batting of the highest order. Nicholas Pooran was the standout performer with a breathtaking 87 off 36 balls*, smashing 8 sixes and 6 boundaries. His power-hitting in the death overs was the key to pushing LSG beyond the 230-mark. Mitchell Marsh provided a solid base at the top with a fluent 81 off 48 deliveries, playing proper cricketing shots and rotating the strike well before shifting gears. Aiden Markram also chipped in with a valuable 47, ensuring LSG never lost momentum in the middle overs. KKR’s bowlers struggled to contain the runs, especially in the second half of the innings. Even their ace spinners found little help on the flat track.
KKR’s Chase: A Rollercoaster Ride
Chasing 239, KKR started with positive intent. Openers Ajinkya Rahane (61) and Venkatesh Iyer (45) built a solid platform with a brisk partnership. The Eden Gardens crowd was behind their team as boundaries flowed consistently.
However, despite the strong start, wickets at regular intervals pegged KKR back just when it seemed like they were taking control. The middle order couldn’t capitalize on the start, and the asking rate crept up.
Then came Rinku Singh, the designated finisher, and he nearly pulled off a miracle yet again. His fearless hitting in the last few overs brought KKR within touching distance of the target.
With 19 required in the final over, it all came down to one last push. But LSG’s bowlers held their nerve, kept their lines tight, and ensured KKR fell short at 234/7.
Key Moments That Decided the Game
Pooran’s Death Overs Destruction: His late surge turned a par score into a near-unreachable total.
KKR’s Middle Overs Collapse: Despite a strong start, the lack of stability in the middle overs hurt KKR’s chase.
Last Over Calmness by LSG: Holding off a rampaging Rinku Singh under pressure showed great temperament from LSG’s death bowlers.
Match Summary
Lucknow Super Giants: 238/3 (Nicholas Pooran 87*, Marsh 81, Markram 47) Kolkata Knight Riders: 234/7 (Rahane 61, Iyer 45, Rinku Singh 32*) Result: LSG won by 4 runs Player of the Match: Nicholas Pooran
Impact on the Points Table
This win takes LSG to 4th position with 6 points from 5 matches, giving them a strong boost in net run rate and momentum. Meanwhile, KKR remain in the mid-table mix with 4 points, but they’ll be concerned about their death bowling and ability to close out chases.
What’s Next?
LSG will look to build on this thrilling win as they face their next challenge in a packed schedule.
KKR will have to regroup quickly and find answers to their middle-over batting and bowling at the death.