IPL 2023: LSG prevail in top-of-the-table clash by 10 runs as RR make losing return to Jaipur

Rajasthan Royals could not get off to a winning start on their return to Jaipur after four years as Lucknow Super Giants prevailed in a low-scoring game by 10 runs on Wednesday.

LSG posted 154/6 in their 20 overs and Sanju Samson’s side fell short, finishing with 144/7 in 20 overs.

Asked to bat first, LSG never quite got going despite a 82-run opening partnership between KL Rahul and Kyle Mayers. The innings started with a maiden over from Trent Boult to Rahul, as the LSG captain’s scoring rate in the powerplay came under the scanner again.

He eventually finished with 39 off 32 balls. But it was now becoming evident that the pitch wasn’t the easiest to bat on, and it would remain the case through the night as most batters struggled for fluency along with the big boundaries playing a role.

Nicholas Pooran’s late hits with the bat (29 off 20 balls) pushed LSG beyond 150 and it would prove to be enough. Marcus Stoinis too chipped in with a 16-ball 21. R Ashwin was superb with the ball for Royals, with 2/23 off four overs.

RR’s innings mirrored LSG’s for the most part, with a 87-run opening partnership where Yashasvi Jaiswal looked more...

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