Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant credited his team’s unity and clarity of roles after their dominant seven-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) clash at the Ekana Stadium on Friday. Although LSG are already out of playoff contention, Pant stressed that the side continues to play with pride and commitment.
Chasing 188, Lucknow produced a near-flawless batting performance led by Mitchell Marsh, who smashed a breathtaking 90 off just 38 balls. Marsh and Josh Inglis laid the foundation with a massive 135-run opening stand that completely shifted the contest in LSG’s favour. Inglis contributed a brisk 36, while Nicholas Pooran remained unbeaten on 32 to seal the chase with 20 balls to spare.
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Speaking after the match, Pant said the win was crucial for the team’s morale and reflected the spirit within the squad despite a disappointing overall campaign.
“It feels good. Getting a win definitely feels good. The things we talk about, of having a lot to play for, regardless of how the season ends, we take a lot of pride,” Pant said.
The LSG skipper also praised left-arm pacer Akash Singh, whose disciplined spell helped restrict CSK in the first innings. Akash picked up three wickets and made early inroads into Chennai’s batting line-up.
“He has been working hard. Sometimes, it is harder to give everyone a game. He is one guy who sticks to the plan more often, and it definitely paid off. Really good to see,” he added.
Top Three From Overseas
Pant further revealed that the team’s decision to promote overseas batters to the top order was part of a tactical adjustment that has worked effectively this season.
“That was the first thought – to get two overseas to open, with Nicky (Pooran) batting three. Four fast bowlers, it has been working for us,” he said.
He also admitted that overthinking had occasionally hurt the team during the season. “The team we have is so amazing. The only thing that can harm us is having too many thought processes,” Pant noted.
On not batting himself, Pant explained, “I was ready to bat (tonight). But the idea came in on why not try players who have not played much. Still wanted to be out there, but sometimes, you have to respect some things.”
(With inputs from Agencies)
