How Did Pant's Stunning Century and Marsh's Fifty Propel LSG to a 228-Run Target Against RCB?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying match at the Ekana Stadium, Rishabh Pant's explosive century and Mitchell Marsh's stellar performance propelled the Lucknow Super Giants to a record-breaking target of 228 runs against RCB. As both teams battled for a crucial IPL win, Pant's talent shone brightly, making this match a memorable showdown.
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant scored an unbeaten century, showcasing his batting prowess.
- Mitchell Marsh contributed significantly with a solid fifty.
- Lucknow Super Giants set a record target of 228 runs for RCB.
- RCB's team selection raised questions, particularly leaving out key players.
- The match highlighted the unpredictability of IPL performances.
Lucknow, May 27 (NationPress) Rishabh Pant showcased his best form of the season in the final league match, scoring an impressive unbeaten century to lead the Lucknow Super Giants to a formidable total of 227/3 in 20 overs during Match 70 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 at the Ekana Stadium on Tuesday.
Pant, who had faced challenges throughout the season with inconsistent batting positions and only one previous half-century, found his rhythm in this match, delivering an extraordinary display of powerful hitting. This marks his second century in IPL history, enabling LSG to establish the highest chase ever at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The previous record chase at this venue was 206, setting a significant challenge for RCB.
Pant remained unbeaten at 118 off 61 balls, while Mitchell Marsh contributed with a solid 67 off 37 balls, helping LSG amass a staggering total.
RCB, in need of a win to secure a top-two finish and a spot in Qualifier 1, faced difficulties with their team selection, notably leaving skipper Rajat Patidar on the bench.
After being asked to bat first, the Lucknow Super Giants got off to a rough start when debutant Matthew Breetzke (14 off 12, 1x4, 1x6) departed early, struck on the head by Nuwan Thushara, who bowled him out beautifully with a delivery. However, Pant’s return to form was evident as he joined Marsh to build a massive partnership of 142 runs for the second wicket, steering their side towards a monumental total.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), needing a victory to secure their position among the top two, appeared lackluster on the field as their bowlers struggled to contain Pant and Marsh.
Pant started his innings aggressively, scoring quickly off Yash Dayal in the fourth over and building momentum as LSG reached 55/1 during the power-play.
He continued to dominate, hitting successive sixes and fours against Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Suyash Sharma, racing to his half-century in just 29 balls.
Marsh, who has consistently performed for LSG this season, reached his half-century in 31 balls, pushing past the 600-run mark for the season as their partnership reached 150 runs in 85 balls.
In an attempt to halt the scoring, RCB skipper Jitesh Sharma brought Kumar back into the attack, but Marsh responded with powerful sixes. Despite his efforts, Marsh fell for 67 off 37 balls, which included four fours and five sixes.
Pant continued to excel, reaching his second IPL century in seven years, marking the milestone off 54 balls.
With no pressure on him as his team was out of the playoff race, Pant played freely, aided by some lackluster bowling from the RCB side.
He struck 11 boundaries and eight sixes, finishing with an unbeaten 118 off 61 balls, showcasing remarkable batting throughout the match. Nicholas Pooran added 13 off 10 balls, leaving LSG with the largest target ever set for RCB.
Brief scores:
Lucknow Super Giants 226/3 in 20 overs (Rishabh Pant 118 not out, Mitchell Marsh 67; Nuwan Thushara 1-26, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1-44) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Point of View
It's important to acknowledge the stellar performance by Rishabh Pant, whose remarkable century not only showcased his potential but also revitalized the Lucknow Super Giants. Despite the pressures of the season and RCB's strategic missteps, Pant's innings will be remembered as a highlight of IPL 2025, exemplifying the unpredictable nature of the tournament.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of Lucknow Super Giants in the match?
Lucknow Super Giants scored 226 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their 20 overs.
Who were the key players for Lucknow Super Giants in the match?
Rishabh Pant and Mitchell Marsh were the standout performers, with Pant scoring 118 runs not out and Marsh contributing 67 runs.
What target did RCB need to chase?
RCB needed to chase down a target of 228 runs to win the match.
Where was the match played?
The match took place at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.
What was RCB's strategy in this match?
RCB's strategy faltered with poor team selection, notably the absence of skipper Rajat Patidar.
