Rishabh Pant believes LSG can still make it to the playoffs
The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) suffered a disappointing 37-run loss against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their latest Indian Premier League (IPL) match. The defeat has left LSG’s playoff hopes hanging by a thread, but their captain Rishabh Pant remains optimistic about their chances.
Speaking after the match, Pant acknowledged that his team’s performance was far from satisfactory, but he refused to give up on their playoff ambitions. “The dream is still alive,” he said. “If we can win the next three matches, we definitely can turn it around. It makes sense when your top order is batting really well.”
Pant’s statement may seem like a stretch considering LSG’s current position in the points table. They are currently fifth with six wins from 11 matches, and with just three matches remaining, they need to win all their remaining games and rely on other results going in their favor to make it to the playoffs.
However, Pant’s confidence is not unfounded. LSG have shown glimpses of brilliance in their previous matches, particularly with the bat. KL Rahul, their star opener, has been in excellent form, and if he can continue to fire, it could make all the difference for his team.
Moreover, LSG have a relatively easy run-in, with matches against teams that are already out of contention. They face off against the Gujarat Titans, the Rajasthan Royals, and the Mumbai Indians in their next three matches, all of whom are likely to field weakened teams.
Pant’s words of encouragement have already rubbed off on his teammates, who are feeling more optimistic about their chances than they did after the loss to PBKS. “We are not giving up,” said Rahul, who top-scored with 40 in the match. “We know we have the talent and the potential to make it to the playoffs. We just need to believe in ourselves and execute our plans better.”
LSG’s batting has been their strength throughout the tournament, with Rahul, Quinton de Kock, and Deepak Hooda all contributing significantly. However, their bowling department has been a concern, with no bowler able to consistently pick up wickets.
To make a late push for the playoffs, LSG will need to find a way to strengthen their bowling attack. They may need to make some changes to their team combination, or rely on their spinners to bowl tightly and restrict the opposition’s scoring.
Despite the challenges ahead, Pant remains confident that his team can still turn their season around. “We have the talent and the skill,” he said. “We just need to stay positive and focused. If we can do that, I’m sure we can make it to the playoffs.”
LSG’s next match is against the Gujarat Titans, and it will be a crucial one in their quest to stay alive in the tournament. With Pant at the helm, they will be looking to make a statement and set themselves up for a late push for the playoffs.
News Source: https://www.cricket.com/news/rishabh-pant-believes-lsg-can-still-make-it-to-the-playoffs-542025-1746384118417
