Rahul now has a strike rate in the competition of 113.91, but he can undoubtedly improve.
In a critical mid-table matchup in the Indian Premier League on Friday, Lucknow Super Giants will be seeking to move past an illogical batting effort against Punjab Kings.
Both clubs are looking for consistency in the close race to the IPL playoffs as they sit halfway through the campaign with four victories from seven games each.
Though Lucknow’s pitch has not been ideal for batting, skipper K L Rahul’s strike rate became the talking point again as his team failed on Saturday last to chase down 136 against Gujarat from a commanding position.
Rahul now leads the race with a strike rate of 113.91, but he can undoubtedly improve.
The surface at PCA Stadium should be more accommodating for the hitter than the 22 yards in Lucknow, despite the fact that 200 runs have not yet been scored there this season.
The LSG offence has been significantly hindered by pacer Mark Wood’s absence—he has been out since April 15 owing to illness—and the club is hoping he will be back soon. Despite sitting out three games, Wood still leads them in wickets taken.
On the other side, Punjab Kings will want to turn things around at home following a pair of defeats. Shikhar Dhawan, the team’s permanent captain, has missed the past three games owing to a shoulder ailment but may play in the LSG match.
One of the team sources added, “He is recovering well and might play tomorrow.”
Punjab Kings, who have a history of wasting opportunities, are actively trying to improve as the competition goes on.
While the dangerous Liam Livingstone is yet to fully develop after two games, the top order of Prabhsimran Singh and Matthew Short needs to stay in the middle for a longer period of time.
