Aiden Markram said the Lucknow Super Giants dressing room has received a timely lift following their nine-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with the South African batter expressing confidence ahead of LSG's clash against Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday, 11 May 2026.

"Everything is going well. We're just cracking on; you eventually find that rhythm and routine. It was great to get a win the other evening — it really boosted morale in the dressing room. Hopefully, we can back that up with another strong performance today," Markram told broadcasters ahead of the fixture.

Adapting to multiple batting roles

Markram, who captains South Africa in T20 Internationals, acknowledged the tactical flexibility demanded of him at LSG, where he has alternated between opening the innings and batting in the middle order. The challenge, he noted, lies in recalibrating shot selection based on position.

"I think it depends on your specific role. My goal is to maximize scoring and understand my position in the middle. In this format, the requirements can change from ball to ball or over to over, and you have to be aware of that. If you're in the middle order, you have to be quite fluid to ensure you complete the job for the team," he explained.

Shot selection across positions

The batter underscored how certain strokes that succeed at the top of the order can become liabilities in the middle phase. "The tricky thing is that shots that work at the top can often get you caught in the middle overs. Personally, I try to look for more space toward the back end of my innings and find unique ways to find gaps through the middle," Markram added.

Finding rhythm in varied roles

Markram stressed the importance of maintaining adaptability across different batting positions in T20 cricket. "Everyone's approach is a bit different — some guys like to stay in the crease and find gaps, others like to use their feet. For me, it's about hitting those pockets and running hard," he said.

He emphasised his willingness to take on whatever role the team requires. "I've always said I'm happy to be fluid and play whatever role is required. Recently, I've spent more time at the top, so right now, I'm probably more accustomed to that. However, I've played a lot in the middle order in the past as well. I'm currently revisiting those middle-order structures and plans to ensure effective execution."

Perspective on role switching

On the broader challenge of shifting between positions, Markram offered a pragmatic view: "Look, you'd much rather be on the field playing than missing out, so I see it through that lens. Whatever the role, you just try to give it a crack and play according to your strengths. I try not to overthink it; while the roles differ, they're all challenges I'm excited to take on."

LSG, currently bottom-placed in the IPL 2026 standings, will seek to build momentum from their RCB victory as they face the challenge of CSK at home soil on Sunday.