‘I believe it was an absolute flop show from Lucknow’ – Mohammad Kaif lashes out on KL Rahul’s LSG following DC loss

Mohammad Kaif & KL Rahul. (Photo Source: X/Twitter)

Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) chances of making it to the IPL 2024 Playoffs took a major hit after their 19-run defeat to Delhi Capitals (DC) on Tuesday night. The hosts put up an impressive total of 208/4, and the visitors faltered in their chase, and eventually ended their innings on 189/9.

While Nicholas Pooran’s 61 off 27 balls provided some hope, LSG captain KL Rahul’s decision at the toss drew immense criticism from experts. Former India batter Mohammad Kaif lashed on Rahul’s choice to bowl first upon winning the toss at a high-scoring venue.

“Take the video analyst’s computer and throw it away. They didn’t go with any numbers. 200 has not been chased here at all. I am telling you this year’s numbers. In all four matches, the team batting first has won. You won the toss and said you would field first,” Kaif said on Star Sports.

The former India batter emphasized that batting first was the wise decision, given the tournament’s run-fest, where teams have regularly posted 200-plus totals.

“The biggest mistake was the decision at the toss. So, there will be a question mark on the bowling as well. Lucknow had everything to gain from this match. I believe it was an absolute flop show from Lucknow,” he added.

Also Read: Sanjiv Goenka hugs Rishabh Pant after DC’s win over LSG in Delhi

What batting are you doing?: Aakash Chopra 

Another former Indian batter, Aakash Chopra took a dig at LSG’s flop batting performance. With the top order struggling at 44/4 inside five overs. He questioned their shot selection and lack of intent.

“When Lucknow came to bat, what batting are you doing? Quinton de Kock’s bat is not striking the ball and KL Rahul got out for five. After that, (Marcus) Stoinis came and he was left stranded in the middle. Deepak Hooda got out for zero. What are you doing?” said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

Also read: Rishabh Pant blames ban for DC’s slim playoffs chances

After the loss, LSG finds themselves placed with 12 points from 13 games. Their final league match against Mumbai Indians on 17th May is now a virtual knockout, with teams like CSK and SRH in the playoff hunt. Delhi, have kept their slim chances alive, moving up to fifth place with 14 points.