In response to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s blistering hundred for Chennai Super Kings, Marcus Stoinis produced an equally impressive innings, his maiden IPL century, to guide Lucknow Super Giants to a thrilling six-wicket victory on Tuesday. Stepping up after the early fall of Quinton de Kock, Stoinis unleashed a destructive 63-ball 124, peppering the boundaries with 6 fours and 9 towering sixes. His breathtaking knock propelled Lucknow to a competitive total of 213/4, successfully chasing down Chennai’s challenging 210/4.
Chasing 211, Lucknow Super Giants lost an early wicket but Stoinis and KL Rahul steadied the innings with a solid partnership. Rahul’s early dismissal for 16 brought Devdutt Padikkal to the crease as an Impact Player, but he failed to make a significant impact, falling for 13. Throughout the chase, Stoinis remained the cornerstone of Lucknow’s pursuit, expertly maneuvering the field and navigating the Chennai bowlers with poise.
Reaching his half-century off just 26 deliveries, Stoinis set the platform for Lucknow’s eventual triumph. His partnership with Nicholas Pooran further added to the momentum as the required run rate continued to decrease. As the chase neared its conclusion, Marcus Stoinis remained unbeaten, ensuring a comprehensive victory for Lucknow Super Giants.
On the Chennai front, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s unbeaten 60-ball 108 laid the foundation for a competitive total. Gaikwad’s sublime knock was supported by Shivam Dube’s 66, but it ultimately proved insufficient to contain the brilliance of Marcus Stoinis and the Lucknow Super Giants.
