Lucknow bowlers were up against a strong batting lineup in tough bowling conditions. The seamers were carted all around the park in the initial overs. However, Ravi Bishnoi got rid of Ruturaj Gaikwad with a brilliant piece of fielding and bowled a great spell as he went for just 6 runs per over and got two important wickets. Other bowlers were expensive but Avesh Khan and Tye got two wickets apiece and bowled decently in the death to avoid this game drift completely away from them.
Chennai had a new opening pair today, with Robin Uthappa being promoted at the top of the order and the move paid rich dividends as Robin Uthappa came out all guns blazing. The Powerplay was a fantastic one as Moeen Ali joined hands with Robin Uthappa after losing Ruturaj Gaikwad early. Both departed after some fireworks but Dube and Rayadu made sure that momentum was carried on. In the end, MS Dhoni and Jadeja gave some nice finishing touches to take Chennai to a big total here.Â
...THE RUN CHASEâ¦
Right then, the score is a big one but the pitch is good to bat on and we can expect a cracker of a contest if Lucknow batters get going. Chennai need to bowl well and the experince of Jadeja will be key in these wet conditions. Stay tuned for the run-chase!
Moeen Ali is down for a chat. He says it is a great wicket and he is happy to get runs on the board! States it is not going to be easy to defend with the dew but they need to bowl really well. Mentions you just need to keep going with the bat if they get a good start, there is no target with the dew and the opposition do have a good batting line-up and they need to be at their A-game.
A strong batting performance by Chennai on this very good batting strip. They started off with a bang and once they got that start, 200 was always on the cards. Lucknow have a tough task ahead of them but they have the batting arsenal and conditions are quite favourable for batting. However, they need their top order to fire today.Â
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, ! A boundary to end the innings which means Chennai end with 210! This is full and wide outside off, Dhoni carves it over point and it races away. The last ball spoils the last over, 11 from it.
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, Just the two! A full toss outside off, Dhoni lifts it over cover for two. He did not look to hit that hard, just tried to time it.
Andrew Tye to Dwayne Bravo, No hat-trick but only one! On middle, this is woked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Dwaine Pretorius, NOT ! Three reds! Another successful review by Lucknow and this is a brilliant last over by Tye so far. Two wickets after going for a boundary! This is full and on the leg pole. Dwaine Pretorius looks to flick but misses. He gets hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. Lucknow review again. Three reds. Tye on a hat-trick.
Review time! A huge appeal for an LBW is turned down. Seems to be going down leg.
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! TAKEN! Tye has his first! Jadeja will be disappointed he could not get that away! It was a full toss on the pads, this is whipped in the air and towards deep mid-wicket. Manish Pandey takes another good catch running to his right. Can Lucknow keep them under 210 now?
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Finds the gap and the 200 is up! A full toss on middle, this is heaved through mid-wicket, in the gap and races away to the fence.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Two dots to end! Not a bad over to be honest. Despite a biggie and a boundary, 11 from it and a wicket. Shorter and outside off, Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Swing and a miss! Outside off, slower one. Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Carves it over! Poor from Avesh! That is not the line you want to bowl with point and third man up. Outside off, fuller, this is carved over point. 10 from the two balls faced by Dhoni.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Over the fence! Dhoni wastes no time! That is a brute of a shot! Shorter and outside of, this is slammed over the point fence for a biggie. That is another massive hit. Shades of the old Dhoni there.
MS Dhoni walks out to bat now! Can he roll back the years and help Chennai finish on a high?
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, ! TAKEN! That is a brilliant catch! Never easy when it goes so high and with the lights on. Brilliant from Lewis. End of a superb knock from Dube, he deserved a half ton but falls one short of it. Fuller and on middle, Dube looks to go over mid-wicket but hits it high up in the air, Lewis at deep md-wicket runs to his right and takes it with a slide. He does indicate he lost it in the lights so does well to hang on. Can Lucknow finish well now?
Avesh Khan to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowling to his field! Full and outside off, this is carved towards deep point for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Longer side so two more! Fuller and on middle, Dube swings, it goes off the inner half through square leg for two. Another big over for Chennai. 220 is possible now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is massive! Oh my! What a shot! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled and it sails over the square leg fence.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, Good placement again! Shorter and on off, Jadeja pushes it wide of sweeper cover. Takes two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, ! That is not the line you want to bowl with mid-wicket up! Short and on middle, this is pulled over mid-wicket. Boundary! Jadeja has two boundaries in 4 balls.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Goes short and on the body, Dube mistimes the pull down to fine leg for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boundary to end the great spell by Ravi Bishnoi! A fuller delivery on off. Jadeaja drills it to long off for a boundary. Good shot by the skipper.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly this time, it is around off. Jadeja looks to cut it but misses. Dot ball!
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Goes fuller on off. Dube drills it to long off. Hooda does well in the deep and keeps it to just a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flatter and shorter around off. Jadeja cuts it hard to sweeper cover for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! BOLWED! Ravi Bishnoi has been the shining light for Lucknow today! This is pushed quicker and flatter and it skids through. Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and looks to heave it across the line. He misses it completely and the ball shatters the stumps. Second wicket for Ravi Bishnoi and end of a fine knock from Ambati Rayudu.
Ravindra Jadeja is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, LEG BYES! This is unlucky for the bowler but that's the way this game goes! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu goes for a big slog-sweep but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards the third man fence for a boundary.
There seems to be some problem with the ball! We have a change of ball now and all set to resume now.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, Two more to end a huge over for Chennai! A low full toss on the pads, this is worked wide of long on for two.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. A run taken.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, ! That is massive, that is massive! Lovely use of the feet, Krunal slows it up and bowls it around off, Rayudu gets to the pitch of it and nails it over the long on fence.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dushmantha Chameera is having a poor day in the field! This is a high full toss on the pads, not high enough to be called a no all. Dube looks to pull, it goes off the inner half to short fine leg where it is dropped. This could prove costly. Dube is in some form here. A single taken.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dube is in his elements here today! Outside off, this is powered through covers. The fielder in the deep runs to his right and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, On middle, this is worked through square leg for one.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, A leg bye to end another good over for the batting side! Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and lobs on the off side. A leg bye taken.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, ! Rayudu hits it well enough! For a second Lewis might have thought he had a chance. Shorter as he sees Rayudu come down the track. He slams it over the long on fence.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, On the bounce! Shorter and on middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Superb from Tye! Shorter and on off, hurries Dube who ends up hitting it to the right of the bowler. Tye dives and saves a run.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, Just the one! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one. Singles won't harm Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Another slower one, this is pushed to cover for one.
DRINKS! Lucknow has managed to control the scoring-rate a bit by taking couple of wickets but Chennai are still in the driver's seat. They are going at almost 10 runs an over and Lucknow need good last 6 overs to restrict Chennai under 200 here. Plenty of firepower to follow and Chennai will be disappointed if they don't cross 200 mark from hereon on this very good batting turf.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, WIDE! That does not come out right, looks to bowl a slower one but does so well wide outside off. Left alone.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube hits it hard to wide long on for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and Pandya fires it on middle and leg. Ambati Rayudu looks to defend it but gets the inside edge onto his pads. The ball goes towards short third man for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, A flatter and quciker one on middle. Ambati Rayudu looks to drive but mistimes it towards the leg side.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube works it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, WIDE! Pandya tries to push it quicker. It is way outside off and Dube leaves it alone.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu skips down the track and Pandya drags it slightly short. Ambati Rayudu works it to deep square leg for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A low full toss on middle. Dube hits it to wide long on for a single.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Goes quicker and bit shorter on off. Dube knocks it down to long off and retains a single. 12 runs from the over!
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, A flatter and quicker delivery, around off. Dube looks to cut but mistimes it.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Slower again and around off. Dube defends it with soft hands towards point.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! This is the power of Shivam Dube! Tossed up and fuller on off. Dube gets under it and tonks it straight down the ground for a biggie.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! Another misfield and another boundary! Short and outside off. Dube cuts it hard towards sweeper cover and the fielder covers the ground but slips at the last moment. The ball goes through him for a boundary.
Deepak Hooda to Ambati Rayudu, Goes fuller on middle. Ambati Rayudu pushes it to long on for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, A quicker delivery around off and it's a googly. Dube looks to defend it but the ball turns and beats the outside edge of his blade.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, On middle and fuller. Ambati Rayudu sweeps it towards deep backward square leg. Krunal Pandya there runs forward and dives but the ball falls just short of him. A single taken. Good effort by Krunal Pandya though.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ohh...the pressure was just building and now the misfield allows a boundary! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu drives it to deep cover. Dushmantha Chameera runs to his right but ends up misjudging it and the ball races away towards the fence.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Fuller, outside off. Ambati Rayudu does not use his feet and looks to hit it away but misses.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Dot ball! A flatter delivery and slightly shorter on off. Ambati Rayudu punches it to covers.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Quicker and fuller on off. Dube drives it to covers for a single.
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, On the shorter side again, around off. Dube steers it towards third man for a single. Good over by Avesh Khan.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Back of a length, around off. Ambati Rayudu steers it towards third man for a single.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ambati Rayudu now gets off the mark with a boundary! Lovely shot. It is short, around off. Ambati Rayudu waits for it and just guides it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Nails a yorker on off. Ambati Rayudu digs it out.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, A good-length delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu leaves it alone.
Ambati Rayudu walks out to bat!
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! BOWLED! What an inspired bowling change by KL Rahul! Avesh Khan has been expensive today but gets a big fish now! Lands on a length, on off. Moeen Ali goes for a big heave across the line but misses. The ball shatters the stumps and Avesh Khan is pumped up. So two set batters gone now and this is an opportunity for Lucknow to get back in this game.
Avesh Khan is back on.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A single to end! Ravi Bishnoi has been really good so far! On middle, this is pushed down to long on for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Lovely from Moeen again! This lands on off and then turns away. Moeen plays inside the line and the ball whizzes past the outside edge.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, That should not have been a run! On off, yet again a googly, Moeen looks to defend but it goes off the outside edge to short third man. A single. The fielder was on his heels there.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Another good, this lands on off and spins away. Ali looks to push at it but is beaten.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, ! Fortunate runs! This lands outside off and spins away a touch. Moeen looks to push at it, it goes off the outside edge down to third man. 100 up and in no time. 230 is on the cards here.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Almost chops it on! Shorter and outside off, Dube looks to cut but gets an underedge on the off side. A dot to end but the damage was done earlier on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is timed wonderfully! On a length and around off, this is sliding onto the bat nicely, Dube times it through covers, it races away to the fence. Third boundary in the over.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Fuller and on middle, Dube jams it out to mid on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is some shot! Just used the pace! He loves width on offer! Full and outside off, he times it over cover for a boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! The direction was poor there! Short and down the leg side, Dube helps it on it way towards fine leg. The fielder runs to his left and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Dushmantha Chameera to continue. He will bowl his third over now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Short! Dube is not comfortable with that delivery. He fends it away.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A dot to end a good over by Ravi! A much-needed one for his side. On the pads, this is worked to short fine leg.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, Easy two! On middle, this is worked through wide mid on. Two taken.
Shivam Dube is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Dube is off the mark, flatter and outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, ! THREE REDS AND UTHAPPA IS A GONER! Huge wicket as he was taking the game away. Welcome wicket for Lucknow and it is Bishnoi, who had a poor game last time around who provides the breakthrough. This lands on middle, it straightens and skids through. Uthappa goes back to flick but is late in getting his bat down. It hits the pad. A huge appeal but turned down. Reviewed and replays show that the on-field call has to be overturned. A good innings by Uthappa,
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Flatter and on off, this is guided to point.
It's time for Ravi Bishnoi to show his skills now. He is into the attack.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Fifty for Uthappa! He has really done well for Chennai since they have included him in the side in the last edition. Gets there by working this fine on the leg side for two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, A single to end the over then! On middle, slower one. Robin Uthappa flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Follows the boundary with a run as this is pushed down to long on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, ! That is wonderful timing again! A boundary is coming almost every over! Length and on off, this is stroked througyh covers and this one races away to the fence.
Drinks! A much-needed break for Lucknow! What a Powerplay this has been for Chennai, Robin Uthappa is looking like a man on a mission and has smashed Lucknow bowlers all over the park so far. Lucknow has got the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad courtesy of a brilliant piece of fielding by Ravi Bishnoi but Moeen Ali has walked out at number 3 and has started smashing it from the word go. Lucknow need wickets and need them quickly to restrict Chennai to a reasonable total. Dushmantha Chameera is b
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Another run! On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Half stop! A good stop though! On off, this is timed well towards cover. The fielder dives to his left and makes a wonderful stop. Just a run.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Good length and on off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali is playing with the field here! The square leg was pushed back and the mid-wicket was got in. This is bowled shorter. Ali goes back and pulls it over mid-wicket for a boundary. A solid end to a solid Powerplay for Chennai.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! BANG! That hits the cushions on the full! Another biggie! On middle, the slog sweep is out, this is hit over square leg and it hits the cushion on the full.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! That is timed wonderfully. On off, flatter, this is driven beautifully through covers. Races away. Chennai are oin a roll here.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Fires it on the pads, this is worked to square leg.
Krunal Pandya to Robin Uthappa, Angled into the pads, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Flatter and on middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! 18 runs from the over! This is slightly short on middle. Robin Uthappa gets a bit across and then slams it towards deep backward square leg for a boundary. He has been given the opening position today and has grabbed it with both hands.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Serves a length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa defends it with soft hand towards square leg and initially looks for only a single but the fielders are slow to approach the ball and the batters run two.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa is on fire here! A length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa gets across towards the off side and just guides it over short fine leg for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Tye replies with a short delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa sways away from the line of the ball.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Deft touch this time! Lands on a length, around off. Robin Uthappa opens the face of his blade and steers it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! There is no stopping Robin Uthappa today! It is on the shorter length, on off. Robin Uthappa stays deep in his crease and pulls it towards deep mid-wicket for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, On a length, on off at 135.9 kph. Ali gets the leading edge of his blade towards mid off as he looks to push it away.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on off. Ali works it to mid on.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali joins the act now! Avesh Khan has been poor so far. It is short on middle. Ali pulls it over fine leg for a maximum. The extra pace took the ball way over the fence.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa pushes it to mid on and takes a quick single.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Pulls his length back and around off. Robin Uthappa defends it towards the off side.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa continues with his merry ways! A fullish delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa leans forward and creams a drive through covers for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on middle. Moeen Ali defends it onto the turf. Good over by Andrew Tye and a successful one for Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, ! RUN OUT! Brilliant presence of mind shown by Ravi Bishnoi and it's another failure for Ruturaj Gaikwad! Tye serves a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but gets the inside edge onto his pads and the ball goes towards the off side. In the meanwhile, there is a big appeal for LBW but the umpire turns it down. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to steal a single but is sent back by his partner. However, Ravi Bishnoi is qu
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Fuller delivery on middle. Ali drives it to mid on.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, On a length, around off. Ali punches it to covers.
Moeen Ali walks out to bat now!
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Goes slightly shorter on middle. Robin Uthappa mistimes his pull to square leg for a single.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Angling into the pads, Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Change! Andrew Tye has the ball in hand now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! Another expensive over and Robin Uthappa is showing his class here. On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa just lifts this towards deep mid-wicket and gets another boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on off. Robin Uthappa defends it solidly off the front foot this time.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! What a shot! Dushmantha Chameera drifts on the pads. Robin Uthappa just whips it over deep square leg for a biggie. He hit that 83 metres away!
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Lands on a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, WIDE! A short ball again and this one also takes off the pitch. It goes over the head of the batter, Robin Uthappa. He ducks under it and Quinton de Kock behind the stumps jumps and stops it. The umpire calls it wide for height.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Goes back of a length, around off. Ruturaj Gaikwad punches it to point for a single.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Starts with a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad works it to mid-wicket.
Who will bowl from the other end then? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, BYES! So a very expensive first over from Avesh Khan! This one is banged in short, around off. It bounce way too high as Robin Uthappa lets it go. The ball goes over the keeper and races away for a boundary, Quinton de Kock had no chance there as he jumps to catch it.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa works it past square leg for a couple.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Bangs it short this time, on off. Robin Uthappa looks to duck under it but takes his eyes off. The ball hits his helmet and Manish Pandey takes a catch on the off side. Good short delivery!
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Back of a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Ohh...lovely timing again! Lands on a length and around off. Robin Uthappa goes back and punches it through point for a boundary. Robin Uthappa is looking in great touch.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Welcome to game number 7 of the Indian T20 League 2022! Avesh Khan drifts on the pads straightaway and Robin Uthappa clips it past square leg for a boundary. Superb timing.
Gautam Gambhir, the mentor of Lucknow, says that his role has a lot to do with strategy and helping people and more importantly about getting results their way. Tells that they played well from the situation they were in but they need to learn and it is all about results. Talks about Ayush Badoni and tells that it is too early to talk about him and one innings does not make him a superstar but says that he has talent and that is why he is in the team. Says that it has been good for him so far
We are all set to begin! Lucknow players are in huddle and they disperse now to take their respective positions. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa are the openers for Chennai. Avesh Khan to start with the ball for Lucknow. Can he make the new ball talk. Let's find out. Here we go...
Ravindra Jadeja, the skipper of Chennai, says they wanted to bowl first too as there is some grass on the wicket but now they need to bat well. Tells that they they are blessed to have a huge fan following. Informs that Moeen Ali is back and Milne is out due to an injury and they have three changes in their team.
Chennai (Playing XI) - Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali (In place of Devon Conway), Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja (C), MS Dhoni (WK), Shivam Dube, Dwayne Bravo, Dwaine Pretorius (In place of Mitchell Santner), Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary (In place of Adam Milne).
Lucknow (Playing XI) - KL Rahul (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Evin Lewis, Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Dushmantha Chameera, Andrew Tye (In place of Mohsin Khan), Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan.Â
KL Rahul, the skipper of Lucknow, says they need to play good cricket at the end of the day and they have been watching the other games and the ball really gets wet and hence, they want to bowl first. States he really enjoyed the last game, the boys showed a lot of fight and they showed great character but they are looking forward to this game. Informs they have one change, Andrew Tye comes in for Mohsin Khan.
TOSS - The coin goes up and lands in favour of Lucknow. They have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
The high-octane action in the 15th edition of the Indian T20 League continues as the defending champions, Chennai get ready to lock horns against a star-studded Lucknow team. Both teams started their campaign with a loss in the opening game and it is an opportunity for them to get their house in order tonight. If Lucknow win, it will be the first victory for the new franchise and they will surely be looking to notch it up against one of the most successful teams in the history of the Indian T20
PITCH REPORT - Graeme Swann is down for a pitch report. Tells that one side boundary is shorter and the other side is longer. He says that there was a bit of extra bounce in the first game on this venue. Tells that the batters were not able to get off the front foot so adds that expect a bit of halfway magic. He tells that the water has been put on the surface since the other day and says that it is a bit greener. Mentions that the pitch is good to bat on but the seamers might get help here.
Lucknow have one of the most celebrated opening pair of the tournament with KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock. However, Â it was the depth in their squad that came to their rescue when the top-order faltered in the opening game. The bowling group too showed tremendous fight defending a modest total in wet conditions and despite a loss, the first game must have surely given them a lot of confidence and we can expect a more clinical display from KL Rahul and his boys in this game.
Chennai, on the other hand, just could not assess the conditions and adapt quickly on a fresh wicket in their opening game. The top-order faltered and after that, they were always behind the game despite MS Dhoni displaying some of his vintage finishing skills. In the bowling department, apart from Dwayne Bravo, everyone else had an ordinary outing but with Moeen Ali all set to be back for this encounter, expect Chennai to come out all guns blazing. Will we see Chennai opening their account on
We are back for the chase!
Lucknow bowlers were up against a strong batting lineup in tough bowling conditions. The seamers were carted all around the park in the initial overs. However, Ravi Bishnoi got rid of Ruturaj Gaikwad with a brilliant piece of fielding and bowled a great spell as he went for just 6 runs per over and got two important wickets. Other bowlers were expensive but Avesh Khan and Tye got two wickets apiece and bowled decently in the death to avoid this game drift completely away from them.
Chennai had a new opening pair today, with Robin Uthappa being promoted at the top of the order and the move paid rich dividends as Robin Uthappa came out all guns blazing. The Powerplay was a fantastic one as Moeen Ali joined hands with Robin Uthappa after losing Ruturaj Gaikwad early. Both departed after some fireworks but Dube and Rayadu made sure that momentum was carried on. In the end, MS Dhoni and Jadeja gave some nice finishing touches to take Chennai to a big total here.Â
...THE RUN CHASEâ¦
Right then, the score is a big one but the pitch is good to bat on and we can expect a cracker of a contest if Lucknow batters get going. Chennai need to bowl well and the experince of Jadeja will be key in these wet conditions. Stay tuned for the run-chase!
Moeen Ali is down for a chat. He says it is a great wicket and he is happy to get runs on the board! States it is not going to be easy to defend with the dew but they need to bowl really well. Mentions you just need to keep going with the bat if they get a good start, there is no target with the dew and the opposition do have a good batting line-up and they need to be at their A-game.
A strong batting performance by Chennai on this very good batting strip. They started off with a bang and once they got that start, 200 was always on the cards. Lucknow have a tough task ahead of them but they have the batting arsenal and conditions are quite favourable for batting. However, they need their top order to fire today.Â
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, ! A boundary to end the innings which means Chennai end with 210! This is full and wide outside off, Dhoni carves it over point and it races away. The last ball spoils the last over, 11 from it.
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, Just the two! A full toss outside off, Dhoni lifts it over cover for two. He did not look to hit that hard, just tried to time it.
Andrew Tye to Dwayne Bravo, No hat-trick but only one! On middle, this is woked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Dwaine Pretorius, NOT ! Three reds! Another successful review by Lucknow and this is a brilliant last over by Tye so far. Two wickets after going for a boundary! This is full and on the leg pole. Dwaine Pretorius looks to flick but misses. He gets hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. Lucknow review again. Three reds. Tye on a hat-trick.
Review time! A huge appeal for an LBW is turned down. Seems to be going down leg.
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! TAKEN! Tye has his first! Jadeja will be disappointed he could not get that away! It was a full toss on the pads, this is whipped in the air and towards deep mid-wicket. Manish Pandey takes another good catch running to his right. Can Lucknow keep them under 210 now?
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Finds the gap and the 200 is up! A full toss on middle, this is heaved through mid-wicket, in the gap and races away to the fence.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Two dots to end! Not a bad over to be honest. Despite a biggie and a boundary, 11 from it and a wicket. Shorter and outside off, Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Swing and a miss! Outside off, slower one. Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Carves it over! Poor from Avesh! That is not the line you want to bowl with point and third man up. Outside off, fuller, this is carved over point. 10 from the two balls faced by Dhoni.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Over the fence! Dhoni wastes no time! That is a brute of a shot! Shorter and outside of, this is slammed over the point fence for a biggie. That is another massive hit. Shades of the old Dhoni there.
MS Dhoni walks out to bat now! Can he roll back the years and help Chennai finish on a high?
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, ! TAKEN! That is a brilliant catch! Never easy when it goes so high and with the lights on. Brilliant from Lewis. End of a superb knock from Dube, he deserved a half ton but falls one short of it. Fuller and on middle, Dube looks to go over mid-wicket but hits it high up in the air, Lewis at deep md-wicket runs to his right and takes it with a slide. He does indicate he lost it in the lights so does well to hang on. Can Lucknow finish well now?
Avesh Khan to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowling to his field! Full and outside off, this is carved towards deep point for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Longer side so two more! Fuller and on middle, Dube swings, it goes off the inner half through square leg for two. Another big over for Chennai. 220 is possible now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is massive! Oh my! What a shot! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled and it sails over the square leg fence.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, Good placement again! Shorter and on off, Jadeja pushes it wide of sweeper cover. Takes two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, ! That is not the line you want to bowl with mid-wicket up! Short and on middle, this is pulled over mid-wicket. Boundary! Jadeja has two boundaries in 4 balls.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Goes short and on the body, Dube mistimes the pull down to fine leg for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boundary to end the great spell by Ravi Bishnoi! A fuller delivery on off. Jadeaja drills it to long off for a boundary. Good shot by the skipper.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly this time, it is around off. Jadeja looks to cut it but misses. Dot ball!
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Goes fuller on off. Dube drills it to long off. Hooda does well in the deep and keeps it to just a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flatter and shorter around off. Jadeja cuts it hard to sweeper cover for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! BOLWED! Ravi Bishnoi has been the shining light for Lucknow today! This is pushed quicker and flatter and it skids through. Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and looks to heave it across the line. He misses it completely and the ball shatters the stumps. Second wicket for Ravi Bishnoi and end of a fine knock from Ambati Rayudu.
Ravindra Jadeja is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, LEG BYES! This is unlucky for the bowler but that's the way this game goes! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu goes for a big slog-sweep but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards the third man fence for a boundary.
There seems to be some problem with the ball! We have a change of ball now and all set to resume now.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, Two more to end a huge over for Chennai! A low full toss on the pads, this is worked wide of long on for two.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. A run taken.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, ! That is massive, that is massive! Lovely use of the feet, Krunal slows it up and bowls it around off, Rayudu gets to the pitch of it and nails it over the long on fence.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dushmantha Chameera is having a poor day in the field! This is a high full toss on the pads, not high enough to be called a no all. Dube looks to pull, it goes off the inner half to short fine leg where it is dropped. This could prove costly. Dube is in some form here. A single taken.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dube is in his elements here today! Outside off, this is powered through covers. The fielder in the deep runs to his right and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, On middle, this is worked through square leg for one.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, A leg bye to end another good over for the batting side! Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and lobs on the off side. A leg bye taken.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, ! Rayudu hits it well enough! For a second Lewis might have thought he had a chance. Shorter as he sees Rayudu come down the track. He slams it over the long on fence.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, On the bounce! Shorter and on middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Superb from Tye! Shorter and on off, hurries Dube who ends up hitting it to the right of the bowler. Tye dives and saves a run.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, Just the one! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one. Singles won't harm Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Another slower one, this is pushed to cover for one.
DRINKS! Lucknow has managed to control the scoring-rate a bit by taking couple of wickets but Chennai are still in the driver's seat. They are going at almost 10 runs an over and Lucknow need good last 6 overs to restrict Chennai under 200 here. Plenty of firepower to follow and Chennai will be disappointed if they don't cross 200 mark from hereon on this very good batting turf.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, WIDE! That does not come out right, looks to bowl a slower one but does so well wide outside off. Left alone.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube hits it hard to wide long on for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and Pandya fires it on middle and leg. Ambati Rayudu looks to defend it but gets the inside edge onto his pads. The ball goes towards short third man for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, A flatter and quciker one on middle. Ambati Rayudu looks to drive but mistimes it towards the leg side.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube works it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, WIDE! Pandya tries to push it quicker. It is way outside off and Dube leaves it alone.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu skips down the track and Pandya drags it slightly short. Ambati Rayudu works it to deep square leg for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A low full toss on middle. Dube hits it to wide long on for a single.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Goes quicker and bit shorter on off. Dube knocks it down to long off and retains a single. 12 runs from the over!
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, A flatter and quicker delivery, around off. Dube looks to cut but mistimes it.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Slower again and around off. Dube defends it with soft hands towards point.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! This is the power of Shivam Dube! Tossed up and fuller on off. Dube gets under it and tonks it straight down the ground for a biggie.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! Another misfield and another boundary! Short and outside off. Dube cuts it hard towards sweeper cover and the fielder covers the ground but slips at the last moment. The ball goes through him for a boundary.
Deepak Hooda to Ambati Rayudu, Goes fuller on middle. Ambati Rayudu pushes it to long on for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, A quicker delivery around off and it's a googly. Dube looks to defend it but the ball turns and beats the outside edge of his blade.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, On middle and fuller. Ambati Rayudu sweeps it towards deep backward square leg. Krunal Pandya there runs forward and dives but the ball falls just short of him. A single taken. Good effort by Krunal Pandya though.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ohh...the pressure was just building and now the misfield allows a boundary! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu drives it to deep cover. Dushmantha Chameera runs to his right but ends up misjudging it and the ball races away towards the fence.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Fuller, outside off. Ambati Rayudu does not use his feet and looks to hit it away but misses.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Dot ball! A flatter delivery and slightly shorter on off. Ambati Rayudu punches it to covers.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Quicker and fuller on off. Dube drives it to covers for a single.
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, On the shorter side again, around off. Dube steers it towards third man for a single. Good over by Avesh Khan.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Back of a length, around off. Ambati Rayudu steers it towards third man for a single.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ambati Rayudu now gets off the mark with a boundary! Lovely shot. It is short, around off. Ambati Rayudu waits for it and just guides it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Nails a yorker on off. Ambati Rayudu digs it out.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, A good-length delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu leaves it alone.
Ambati Rayudu walks out to bat!
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! BOWLED! What an inspired bowling change by KL Rahul! Avesh Khan has been expensive today but gets a big fish now! Lands on a length, on off. Moeen Ali goes for a big heave across the line but misses. The ball shatters the stumps and Avesh Khan is pumped up. So two set batters gone now and this is an opportunity for Lucknow to get back in this game.
Avesh Khan is back on.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A single to end! Ravi Bishnoi has been really good so far! On middle, this is pushed down to long on for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Lovely from Moeen again! This lands on off and then turns away. Moeen plays inside the line and the ball whizzes past the outside edge.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, That should not have been a run! On off, yet again a googly, Moeen looks to defend but it goes off the outside edge to short third man. A single. The fielder was on his heels there.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Another good, this lands on off and spins away. Ali looks to push at it but is beaten.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, ! Fortunate runs! This lands outside off and spins away a touch. Moeen looks to push at it, it goes off the outside edge down to third man. 100 up and in no time. 230 is on the cards here.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Almost chops it on! Shorter and outside off, Dube looks to cut but gets an underedge on the off side. A dot to end but the damage was done earlier on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is timed wonderfully! On a length and around off, this is sliding onto the bat nicely, Dube times it through covers, it races away to the fence. Third boundary in the over.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Fuller and on middle, Dube jams it out to mid on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is some shot! Just used the pace! He loves width on offer! Full and outside off, he times it over cover for a boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! The direction was poor there! Short and down the leg side, Dube helps it on it way towards fine leg. The fielder runs to his left and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Dushmantha Chameera to continue. He will bowl his third over now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Short! Dube is not comfortable with that delivery. He fends it away.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A dot to end a good over by Ravi! A much-needed one for his side. On the pads, this is worked to short fine leg.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, Easy two! On middle, this is worked through wide mid on. Two taken.
Shivam Dube is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Dube is off the mark, flatter and outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, ! THREE REDS AND UTHAPPA IS A GONER! Huge wicket as he was taking the game away. Welcome wicket for Lucknow and it is Bishnoi, who had a poor game last time around who provides the breakthrough. This lands on middle, it straightens and skids through. Uthappa goes back to flick but is late in getting his bat down. It hits the pad. A huge appeal but turned down. Reviewed and replays show that the on-field call has to be overturned. A good innings by Uthappa,
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Flatter and on off, this is guided to point.
It's time for Ravi Bishnoi to show his skills now. He is into the attack.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Fifty for Uthappa! He has really done well for Chennai since they have included him in the side in the last edition. Gets there by working this fine on the leg side for two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, A single to end the over then! On middle, slower one. Robin Uthappa flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Follows the boundary with a run as this is pushed down to long on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, ! That is wonderful timing again! A boundary is coming almost every over! Length and on off, this is stroked througyh covers and this one races away to the fence.
Drinks! A much-needed break for Lucknow! What a Powerplay this has been for Chennai, Robin Uthappa is looking like a man on a mission and has smashed Lucknow bowlers all over the park so far. Lucknow has got the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad courtesy of a brilliant piece of fielding by Ravi Bishnoi but Moeen Ali has walked out at number 3 and has started smashing it from the word go. Lucknow need wickets and need them quickly to restrict Chennai to a reasonable total. Dushmantha Chameera is b
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Another run! On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Half stop! A good stop though! On off, this is timed well towards cover. The fielder dives to his left and makes a wonderful stop. Just a run.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Good length and on off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali is playing with the field here! The square leg was pushed back and the mid-wicket was got in. This is bowled shorter. Ali goes back and pulls it over mid-wicket for a boundary. A solid end to a solid Powerplay for Chennai.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! BANG! That hits the cushions on the full! Another biggie! On middle, the slog sweep is out, this is hit over square leg and it hits the cushion on the full.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! That is timed wonderfully. On off, flatter, this is driven beautifully through covers. Races away. Chennai are oin a roll here.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Fires it on the pads, this is worked to square leg.
Krunal Pandya to Robin Uthappa, Angled into the pads, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Flatter and on middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! 18 runs from the over! This is slightly short on middle. Robin Uthappa gets a bit across and then slams it towards deep backward square leg for a boundary. He has been given the opening position today and has grabbed it with both hands.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Serves a length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa defends it with soft hand towards square leg and initially looks for only a single but the fielders are slow to approach the ball and the batters run two.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa is on fire here! A length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa gets across towards the off side and just guides it over short fine leg for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Tye replies with a short delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa sways away from the line of the ball.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Deft touch this time! Lands on a length, around off. Robin Uthappa opens the face of his blade and steers it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! There is no stopping Robin Uthappa today! It is on the shorter length, on off. Robin Uthappa stays deep in his crease and pulls it towards deep mid-wicket for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, On a length, on off at 135.9 kph. Ali gets the leading edge of his blade towards mid off as he looks to push it away.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on off. Ali works it to mid on.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali joins the act now! Avesh Khan has been poor so far. It is short on middle. Ali pulls it over fine leg for a maximum. The extra pace took the ball way over the fence.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa pushes it to mid on and takes a quick single.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Pulls his length back and around off. Robin Uthappa defends it towards the off side.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa continues with his merry ways! A fullish delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa leans forward and creams a drive through covers for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on middle. Moeen Ali defends it onto the turf. Good over by Andrew Tye and a successful one for Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, ! RUN OUT! Brilliant presence of mind shown by Ravi Bishnoi and it's another failure for Ruturaj Gaikwad! Tye serves a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but gets the inside edge onto his pads and the ball goes towards the off side. In the meanwhile, there is a big appeal for LBW but the umpire turns it down. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to steal a single but is sent back by his partner. However, Ravi Bishnoi is qu
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Fuller delivery on middle. Ali drives it to mid on.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, On a length, around off. Ali punches it to covers.
Moeen Ali walks out to bat now!
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Goes slightly shorter on middle. Robin Uthappa mistimes his pull to square leg for a single.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Angling into the pads, Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Change! Andrew Tye has the ball in hand now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! Another expensive over and Robin Uthappa is showing his class here. On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa just lifts this towards deep mid-wicket and gets another boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on off. Robin Uthappa defends it solidly off the front foot this time.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! What a shot! Dushmantha Chameera drifts on the pads. Robin Uthappa just whips it over deep square leg for a biggie. He hit that 83 metres away!
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Lands on a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, WIDE! A short ball again and this one also takes off the pitch. It goes over the head of the batter, Robin Uthappa. He ducks under it and Quinton de Kock behind the stumps jumps and stops it. The umpire calls it wide for height.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Goes back of a length, around off. Ruturaj Gaikwad punches it to point for a single.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Starts with a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad works it to mid-wicket.
Who will bowl from the other end then? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, BYES! So a very expensive first over from Avesh Khan! This one is banged in short, around off. It bounce way too high as Robin Uthappa lets it go. The ball goes over the keeper and races away for a boundary, Quinton de Kock had no chance there as he jumps to catch it.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa works it past square leg for a couple.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Bangs it short this time, on off. Robin Uthappa looks to duck under it but takes his eyes off. The ball hits his helmet and Manish Pandey takes a catch on the off side. Good short delivery!
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Back of a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Ohh...lovely timing again! Lands on a length and around off. Robin Uthappa goes back and punches it through point for a boundary. Robin Uthappa is looking in great touch.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Welcome to game number 7 of the Indian T20 League 2022! Avesh Khan drifts on the pads straightaway and Robin Uthappa clips it past square leg for a boundary. Superb timing.
Gautam Gambhir, the mentor of Lucknow, says that his role has a lot to do with strategy and helping people and more importantly about getting results their way. Tells that they played well from the situation they were in but they need to learn and it is all about results. Talks about Ayush Badoni and tells that it is too early to talk about him and one innings does not make him a superstar but says that he has talent and that is why he is in the team. Says that it has been good for him so far
We are all set to begin! Lucknow players are in huddle and they disperse now to take their respective positions. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa are the openers for Chennai. Avesh Khan to start with the ball for Lucknow. Can he make the new ball talk. Let's find out. Here we go...
Ravindra Jadeja, the skipper of Chennai, says they wanted to bowl first too as there is some grass on the wicket but now they need to bat well. Tells that they they are blessed to have a huge fan following. Informs that Moeen Ali is back and Milne is out due to an injury and they have three changes in their team.
Chennai (Playing XI) - Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali (In place of Devon Conway), Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja (C), MS Dhoni (WK), Shivam Dube, Dwayne Bravo, Dwaine Pretorius (In place of Mitchell Santner), Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary (In place of Adam Milne).
Lucknow (Playing XI) - KL Rahul (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Evin Lewis, Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Dushmantha Chameera, Andrew Tye (In place of Mohsin Khan), Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan.Â
KL Rahul, the skipper of Lucknow, says they need to play good cricket at the end of the day and they have been watching the other games and the ball really gets wet and hence, they want to bowl first. States he really enjoyed the last game, the boys showed a lot of fight and they showed great character but they are looking forward to this game. Informs they have one change, Andrew Tye comes in for Mohsin Khan.
TOSS - The coin goes up and lands in favour of Lucknow. They have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
The high-octane action in the 15th edition of the Indian T20 League continues as the defending champions, Chennai get ready to lock horns against a star-studded Lucknow team. Both teams started their campaign with a loss in the opening game and it is an opportunity for them to get their house in order tonight. If Lucknow win, it will be the first victory for the new franchise and they will surely be looking to notch it up against one of the most successful teams in the history of the Indian T20
PITCH REPORT - Graeme Swann is down for a pitch report. Tells that one side boundary is shorter and the other side is longer. He says that there was a bit of extra bounce in the first game on this venue. Tells that the batters were not able to get off the front foot so adds that expect a bit of halfway magic. He tells that the water has been put on the surface since the other day and says that it is a bit greener. Mentions that the pitch is good to bat on but the seamers might get help here.
Lucknow have one of the most celebrated opening pair of the tournament with KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock. However, Â it was the depth in their squad that came to their rescue when the top-order faltered in the opening game. The bowling group too showed tremendous fight defending a modest total in wet conditions and despite a loss, the first game must have surely given them a lot of confidence and we can expect a more clinical display from KL Rahul and his boys in this game.
Chennai, on the other hand, just could not assess the conditions and adapt quickly on a fresh wicket in their opening game. The top-order faltered and after that, they were always behind the game despite MS Dhoni displaying some of his vintage finishing skills. In the bowling department, apart from Dwayne Bravo, everyone else had an ordinary outing but with Moeen Ali all set to be back for this encounter, expect Chennai to come out all guns blazing. Will we see Chennai opening their account on
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5
Lucknow Super Giants
211/4(19.3 Overs)
We are back for the chase!
Lucknow bowlers were up against a strong batting lineup in tough bowling conditions. The seamers were carted all around the park in the initial overs. However, Ravi Bishnoi got rid of Ruturaj Gaikwad with a brilliant piece of fielding and bowled a great spell as he went for just 6 runs per over and got two important wickets. Other bowlers were expensive but Avesh Khan and Tye got two wickets apiece and bowled decently in the death to avoid this game drift completely away from them.
Chennai had a new opening pair today, with Robin Uthappa being promoted at the top of the order and the move paid rich dividends as Robin Uthappa came out all guns blazing. The Powerplay was a fantastic one as Moeen Ali joined hands with Robin Uthappa after losing Ruturaj Gaikwad early. Both departed after some fireworks but Dube and Rayadu made sure that momentum was carried on. In the end, MS Dhoni and Jadeja gave some nice finishing touches to take Chennai to a big total here.Â
...THE RUN CHASEâ¦
Right then, the score is a big one but the pitch is good to bat on and we can expect a cracker of a contest if Lucknow batters get going. Chennai need to bowl well and the experince of Jadeja will be key in these wet conditions. Stay tuned for the run-chase!
Moeen Ali is down for a chat. He says it is a great wicket and he is happy to get runs on the board! States it is not going to be easy to defend with the dew but they need to bowl really well. Mentions you just need to keep going with the bat if they get a good start, there is no target with the dew and the opposition do have a good batting line-up and they need to be at their A-game.
A strong batting performance by Chennai on this very good batting strip. They started off with a bang and once they got that start, 200 was always on the cards. Lucknow have a tough task ahead of them but they have the batting arsenal and conditions are quite favourable for batting. However, they need their top order to fire today.Â
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, ! A boundary to end the innings which means Chennai end with 210! This is full and wide outside off, Dhoni carves it over point and it races away. The last ball spoils the last over, 11 from it.
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, Just the two! A full toss outside off, Dhoni lifts it over cover for two. He did not look to hit that hard, just tried to time it.
Andrew Tye to Dwayne Bravo, No hat-trick but only one! On middle, this is woked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Dwaine Pretorius, NOT ! Three reds! Another successful review by Lucknow and this is a brilliant last over by Tye so far. Two wickets after going for a boundary! This is full and on the leg pole. Dwaine Pretorius looks to flick but misses. He gets hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. Lucknow review again. Three reds. Tye on a hat-trick.
Review time! A huge appeal for an LBW is turned down. Seems to be going down leg.
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! TAKEN! Tye has his first! Jadeja will be disappointed he could not get that away! It was a full toss on the pads, this is whipped in the air and towards deep mid-wicket. Manish Pandey takes another good catch running to his right. Can Lucknow keep them under 210 now?
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Finds the gap and the 200 is up! A full toss on middle, this is heaved through mid-wicket, in the gap and races away to the fence.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Two dots to end! Not a bad over to be honest. Despite a biggie and a boundary, 11 from it and a wicket. Shorter and outside off, Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Swing and a miss! Outside off, slower one. Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Carves it over! Poor from Avesh! That is not the line you want to bowl with point and third man up. Outside off, fuller, this is carved over point. 10 from the two balls faced by Dhoni.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Over the fence! Dhoni wastes no time! That is a brute of a shot! Shorter and outside of, this is slammed over the point fence for a biggie. That is another massive hit. Shades of the old Dhoni there.
MS Dhoni walks out to bat now! Can he roll back the years and help Chennai finish on a high?
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, ! TAKEN! That is a brilliant catch! Never easy when it goes so high and with the lights on. Brilliant from Lewis. End of a superb knock from Dube, he deserved a half ton but falls one short of it. Fuller and on middle, Dube looks to go over mid-wicket but hits it high up in the air, Lewis at deep md-wicket runs to his right and takes it with a slide. He does indicate he lost it in the lights so does well to hang on. Can Lucknow finish well now?
Avesh Khan to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowling to his field! Full and outside off, this is carved towards deep point for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Longer side so two more! Fuller and on middle, Dube swings, it goes off the inner half through square leg for two. Another big over for Chennai. 220 is possible now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is massive! Oh my! What a shot! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled and it sails over the square leg fence.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, Good placement again! Shorter and on off, Jadeja pushes it wide of sweeper cover. Takes two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, ! That is not the line you want to bowl with mid-wicket up! Short and on middle, this is pulled over mid-wicket. Boundary! Jadeja has two boundaries in 4 balls.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Goes short and on the body, Dube mistimes the pull down to fine leg for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boundary to end the great spell by Ravi Bishnoi! A fuller delivery on off. Jadeaja drills it to long off for a boundary. Good shot by the skipper.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly this time, it is around off. Jadeja looks to cut it but misses. Dot ball!
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Goes fuller on off. Dube drills it to long off. Hooda does well in the deep and keeps it to just a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flatter and shorter around off. Jadeja cuts it hard to sweeper cover for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! BOLWED! Ravi Bishnoi has been the shining light for Lucknow today! This is pushed quicker and flatter and it skids through. Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and looks to heave it across the line. He misses it completely and the ball shatters the stumps. Second wicket for Ravi Bishnoi and end of a fine knock from Ambati Rayudu.
Ravindra Jadeja is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, LEG BYES! This is unlucky for the bowler but that's the way this game goes! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu goes for a big slog-sweep but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards the third man fence for a boundary.
There seems to be some problem with the ball! We have a change of ball now and all set to resume now.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, Two more to end a huge over for Chennai! A low full toss on the pads, this is worked wide of long on for two.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. A run taken.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, ! That is massive, that is massive! Lovely use of the feet, Krunal slows it up and bowls it around off, Rayudu gets to the pitch of it and nails it over the long on fence.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dushmantha Chameera is having a poor day in the field! This is a high full toss on the pads, not high enough to be called a no all. Dube looks to pull, it goes off the inner half to short fine leg where it is dropped. This could prove costly. Dube is in some form here. A single taken.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dube is in his elements here today! Outside off, this is powered through covers. The fielder in the deep runs to his right and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, On middle, this is worked through square leg for one.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, A leg bye to end another good over for the batting side! Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and lobs on the off side. A leg bye taken.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, ! Rayudu hits it well enough! For a second Lewis might have thought he had a chance. Shorter as he sees Rayudu come down the track. He slams it over the long on fence.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, On the bounce! Shorter and on middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Superb from Tye! Shorter and on off, hurries Dube who ends up hitting it to the right of the bowler. Tye dives and saves a run.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, Just the one! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one. Singles won't harm Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Another slower one, this is pushed to cover for one.
DRINKS! Lucknow has managed to control the scoring-rate a bit by taking couple of wickets but Chennai are still in the driver's seat. They are going at almost 10 runs an over and Lucknow need good last 6 overs to restrict Chennai under 200 here. Plenty of firepower to follow and Chennai will be disappointed if they don't cross 200 mark from hereon on this very good batting turf.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, WIDE! That does not come out right, looks to bowl a slower one but does so well wide outside off. Left alone.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube hits it hard to wide long on for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and Pandya fires it on middle and leg. Ambati Rayudu looks to defend it but gets the inside edge onto his pads. The ball goes towards short third man for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, A flatter and quciker one on middle. Ambati Rayudu looks to drive but mistimes it towards the leg side.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube works it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, WIDE! Pandya tries to push it quicker. It is way outside off and Dube leaves it alone.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu skips down the track and Pandya drags it slightly short. Ambati Rayudu works it to deep square leg for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A low full toss on middle. Dube hits it to wide long on for a single.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Goes quicker and bit shorter on off. Dube knocks it down to long off and retains a single. 12 runs from the over!
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, A flatter and quicker delivery, around off. Dube looks to cut but mistimes it.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Slower again and around off. Dube defends it with soft hands towards point.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! This is the power of Shivam Dube! Tossed up and fuller on off. Dube gets under it and tonks it straight down the ground for a biggie.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! Another misfield and another boundary! Short and outside off. Dube cuts it hard towards sweeper cover and the fielder covers the ground but slips at the last moment. The ball goes through him for a boundary.
Deepak Hooda to Ambati Rayudu, Goes fuller on middle. Ambati Rayudu pushes it to long on for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, A quicker delivery around off and it's a googly. Dube looks to defend it but the ball turns and beats the outside edge of his blade.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, On middle and fuller. Ambati Rayudu sweeps it towards deep backward square leg. Krunal Pandya there runs forward and dives but the ball falls just short of him. A single taken. Good effort by Krunal Pandya though.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ohh...the pressure was just building and now the misfield allows a boundary! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu drives it to deep cover. Dushmantha Chameera runs to his right but ends up misjudging it and the ball races away towards the fence.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Fuller, outside off. Ambati Rayudu does not use his feet and looks to hit it away but misses.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Dot ball! A flatter delivery and slightly shorter on off. Ambati Rayudu punches it to covers.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Quicker and fuller on off. Dube drives it to covers for a single.
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, On the shorter side again, around off. Dube steers it towards third man for a single. Good over by Avesh Khan.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Back of a length, around off. Ambati Rayudu steers it towards third man for a single.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ambati Rayudu now gets off the mark with a boundary! Lovely shot. It is short, around off. Ambati Rayudu waits for it and just guides it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Nails a yorker on off. Ambati Rayudu digs it out.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, A good-length delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu leaves it alone.
Ambati Rayudu walks out to bat!
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! BOWLED! What an inspired bowling change by KL Rahul! Avesh Khan has been expensive today but gets a big fish now! Lands on a length, on off. Moeen Ali goes for a big heave across the line but misses. The ball shatters the stumps and Avesh Khan is pumped up. So two set batters gone now and this is an opportunity for Lucknow to get back in this game.
Avesh Khan is back on.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A single to end! Ravi Bishnoi has been really good so far! On middle, this is pushed down to long on for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Lovely from Moeen again! This lands on off and then turns away. Moeen plays inside the line and the ball whizzes past the outside edge.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, That should not have been a run! On off, yet again a googly, Moeen looks to defend but it goes off the outside edge to short third man. A single. The fielder was on his heels there.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Another good, this lands on off and spins away. Ali looks to push at it but is beaten.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, ! Fortunate runs! This lands outside off and spins away a touch. Moeen looks to push at it, it goes off the outside edge down to third man. 100 up and in no time. 230 is on the cards here.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Almost chops it on! Shorter and outside off, Dube looks to cut but gets an underedge on the off side. A dot to end but the damage was done earlier on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is timed wonderfully! On a length and around off, this is sliding onto the bat nicely, Dube times it through covers, it races away to the fence. Third boundary in the over.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Fuller and on middle, Dube jams it out to mid on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is some shot! Just used the pace! He loves width on offer! Full and outside off, he times it over cover for a boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! The direction was poor there! Short and down the leg side, Dube helps it on it way towards fine leg. The fielder runs to his left and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Dushmantha Chameera to continue. He will bowl his third over now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Short! Dube is not comfortable with that delivery. He fends it away.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A dot to end a good over by Ravi! A much-needed one for his side. On the pads, this is worked to short fine leg.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, Easy two! On middle, this is worked through wide mid on. Two taken.
Shivam Dube is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Dube is off the mark, flatter and outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, ! THREE REDS AND UTHAPPA IS A GONER! Huge wicket as he was taking the game away. Welcome wicket for Lucknow and it is Bishnoi, who had a poor game last time around who provides the breakthrough. This lands on middle, it straightens and skids through. Uthappa goes back to flick but is late in getting his bat down. It hits the pad. A huge appeal but turned down. Reviewed and replays show that the on-field call has to be overturned. A good innings by Uthappa,
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Flatter and on off, this is guided to point.
It's time for Ravi Bishnoi to show his skills now. He is into the attack.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Fifty for Uthappa! He has really done well for Chennai since they have included him in the side in the last edition. Gets there by working this fine on the leg side for two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, A single to end the over then! On middle, slower one. Robin Uthappa flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Follows the boundary with a run as this is pushed down to long on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, ! That is wonderful timing again! A boundary is coming almost every over! Length and on off, this is stroked througyh covers and this one races away to the fence.
Drinks! A much-needed break for Lucknow! What a Powerplay this has been for Chennai, Robin Uthappa is looking like a man on a mission and has smashed Lucknow bowlers all over the park so far. Lucknow has got the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad courtesy of a brilliant piece of fielding by Ravi Bishnoi but Moeen Ali has walked out at number 3 and has started smashing it from the word go. Lucknow need wickets and need them quickly to restrict Chennai to a reasonable total. Dushmantha Chameera is b
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Another run! On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Half stop! A good stop though! On off, this is timed well towards cover. The fielder dives to his left and makes a wonderful stop. Just a run.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Good length and on off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali is playing with the field here! The square leg was pushed back and the mid-wicket was got in. This is bowled shorter. Ali goes back and pulls it over mid-wicket for a boundary. A solid end to a solid Powerplay for Chennai.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! BANG! That hits the cushions on the full! Another biggie! On middle, the slog sweep is out, this is hit over square leg and it hits the cushion on the full.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! That is timed wonderfully. On off, flatter, this is driven beautifully through covers. Races away. Chennai are oin a roll here.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Fires it on the pads, this is worked to square leg.
Krunal Pandya to Robin Uthappa, Angled into the pads, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Flatter and on middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! 18 runs from the over! This is slightly short on middle. Robin Uthappa gets a bit across and then slams it towards deep backward square leg for a boundary. He has been given the opening position today and has grabbed it with both hands.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Serves a length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa defends it with soft hand towards square leg and initially looks for only a single but the fielders are slow to approach the ball and the batters run two.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa is on fire here! A length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa gets across towards the off side and just guides it over short fine leg for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Tye replies with a short delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa sways away from the line of the ball.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Deft touch this time! Lands on a length, around off. Robin Uthappa opens the face of his blade and steers it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! There is no stopping Robin Uthappa today! It is on the shorter length, on off. Robin Uthappa stays deep in his crease and pulls it towards deep mid-wicket for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, On a length, on off at 135.9 kph. Ali gets the leading edge of his blade towards mid off as he looks to push it away.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on off. Ali works it to mid on.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali joins the act now! Avesh Khan has been poor so far. It is short on middle. Ali pulls it over fine leg for a maximum. The extra pace took the ball way over the fence.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa pushes it to mid on and takes a quick single.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Pulls his length back and around off. Robin Uthappa defends it towards the off side.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa continues with his merry ways! A fullish delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa leans forward and creams a drive through covers for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on middle. Moeen Ali defends it onto the turf. Good over by Andrew Tye and a successful one for Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, ! RUN OUT! Brilliant presence of mind shown by Ravi Bishnoi and it's another failure for Ruturaj Gaikwad! Tye serves a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but gets the inside edge onto his pads and the ball goes towards the off side. In the meanwhile, there is a big appeal for LBW but the umpire turns it down. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to steal a single but is sent back by his partner. However, Ravi Bishnoi is qu
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Fuller delivery on middle. Ali drives it to mid on.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, On a length, around off. Ali punches it to covers.
Moeen Ali walks out to bat now!
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Goes slightly shorter on middle. Robin Uthappa mistimes his pull to square leg for a single.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Angling into the pads, Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Change! Andrew Tye has the ball in hand now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! Another expensive over and Robin Uthappa is showing his class here. On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa just lifts this towards deep mid-wicket and gets another boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on off. Robin Uthappa defends it solidly off the front foot this time.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! What a shot! Dushmantha Chameera drifts on the pads. Robin Uthappa just whips it over deep square leg for a biggie. He hit that 83 metres away!
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Lands on a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, WIDE! A short ball again and this one also takes off the pitch. It goes over the head of the batter, Robin Uthappa. He ducks under it and Quinton de Kock behind the stumps jumps and stops it. The umpire calls it wide for height.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Goes back of a length, around off. Ruturaj Gaikwad punches it to point for a single.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Starts with a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad works it to mid-wicket.
Who will bowl from the other end then? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, BYES! So a very expensive first over from Avesh Khan! This one is banged in short, around off. It bounce way too high as Robin Uthappa lets it go. The ball goes over the keeper and races away for a boundary, Quinton de Kock had no chance there as he jumps to catch it.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa works it past square leg for a couple.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Bangs it short this time, on off. Robin Uthappa looks to duck under it but takes his eyes off. The ball hits his helmet and Manish Pandey takes a catch on the off side. Good short delivery!
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Back of a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Ohh...lovely timing again! Lands on a length and around off. Robin Uthappa goes back and punches it through point for a boundary. Robin Uthappa is looking in great touch.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Welcome to game number 7 of the Indian T20 League 2022! Avesh Khan drifts on the pads straightaway and Robin Uthappa clips it past square leg for a boundary. Superb timing.
Gautam Gambhir, the mentor of Lucknow, says that his role has a lot to do with strategy and helping people and more importantly about getting results their way. Tells that they played well from the situation they were in but they need to learn and it is all about results. Talks about Ayush Badoni and tells that it is too early to talk about him and one innings does not make him a superstar but says that he has talent and that is why he is in the team. Says that it has been good for him so far
We are all set to begin! Lucknow players are in huddle and they disperse now to take their respective positions. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa are the openers for Chennai. Avesh Khan to start with the ball for Lucknow. Can he make the new ball talk. Let's find out. Here we go...
Ravindra Jadeja, the skipper of Chennai, says they wanted to bowl first too as there is some grass on the wicket but now they need to bat well. Tells that they they are blessed to have a huge fan following. Informs that Moeen Ali is back and Milne is out due to an injury and they have three changes in their team.
Chennai (Playing XI) - Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali (In place of Devon Conway), Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja (C), MS Dhoni (WK), Shivam Dube, Dwayne Bravo, Dwaine Pretorius (In place of Mitchell Santner), Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary (In place of Adam Milne).
Lucknow (Playing XI) - KL Rahul (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Evin Lewis, Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Dushmantha Chameera, Andrew Tye (In place of Mohsin Khan), Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan.Â
KL Rahul, the skipper of Lucknow, says they need to play good cricket at the end of the day and they have been watching the other games and the ball really gets wet and hence, they want to bowl first. States he really enjoyed the last game, the boys showed a lot of fight and they showed great character but they are looking forward to this game. Informs they have one change, Andrew Tye comes in for Mohsin Khan.
TOSS - The coin goes up and lands in favour of Lucknow. They have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
The high-octane action in the 15th edition of the Indian T20 League continues as the defending champions, Chennai get ready to lock horns against a star-studded Lucknow team. Both teams started their campaign with a loss in the opening game and it is an opportunity for them to get their house in order tonight. If Lucknow win, it will be the first victory for the new franchise and they will surely be looking to notch it up against one of the most successful teams in the history of the Indian T20
PITCH REPORT - Graeme Swann is down for a pitch report. Tells that one side boundary is shorter and the other side is longer. He says that there was a bit of extra bounce in the first game on this venue. Tells that the batters were not able to get off the front foot so adds that expect a bit of halfway magic. He tells that the water has been put on the surface since the other day and says that it is a bit greener. Mentions that the pitch is good to bat on but the seamers might get help here.
Lucknow have one of the most celebrated opening pair of the tournament with KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock. However, Â it was the depth in their squad that came to their rescue when the top-order faltered in the opening game. The bowling group too showed tremendous fight defending a modest total in wet conditions and despite a loss, the first game must have surely given them a lot of confidence and we can expect a more clinical display from KL Rahul and his boys in this game.
Chennai, on the other hand, just could not assess the conditions and adapt quickly on a fresh wicket in their opening game. The top-order faltered and after that, they were always behind the game despite MS Dhoni displaying some of his vintage finishing skills. In the bowling department, apart from Dwayne Bravo, everyone else had an ordinary outing but with Moeen Ali all set to be back for this encounter, expect Chennai to come out all guns blazing. Will we see Chennai opening their account on
We are back for the chase!
Lucknow bowlers were up against a strong batting lineup in tough bowling conditions. The seamers were carted all around the park in the initial overs. However, Ravi Bishnoi got rid of Ruturaj Gaikwad with a brilliant piece of fielding and bowled a great spell as he went for just 6 runs per over and got two important wickets. Other bowlers were expensive but Avesh Khan and Tye got two wickets apiece and bowled decently in the death to avoid this game drift completely away from them.
Chennai had a new opening pair today, with Robin Uthappa being promoted at the top of the order and the move paid rich dividends as Robin Uthappa came out all guns blazing. The Powerplay was a fantastic one as Moeen Ali joined hands with Robin Uthappa after losing Ruturaj Gaikwad early. Both departed after some fireworks but Dube and Rayadu made sure that momentum was carried on. In the end, MS Dhoni and Jadeja gave some nice finishing touches to take Chennai to a big total here.Â
...THE RUN CHASEâ¦
Right then, the score is a big one but the pitch is good to bat on and we can expect a cracker of a contest if Lucknow batters get going. Chennai need to bowl well and the experince of Jadeja will be key in these wet conditions. Stay tuned for the run-chase!
Moeen Ali is down for a chat. He says it is a great wicket and he is happy to get runs on the board! States it is not going to be easy to defend with the dew but they need to bowl really well. Mentions you just need to keep going with the bat if they get a good start, there is no target with the dew and the opposition do have a good batting line-up and they need to be at their A-game.
A strong batting performance by Chennai on this very good batting strip. They started off with a bang and once they got that start, 200 was always on the cards. Lucknow have a tough task ahead of them but they have the batting arsenal and conditions are quite favourable for batting. However, they need their top order to fire today.Â
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, ! A boundary to end the innings which means Chennai end with 210! This is full and wide outside off, Dhoni carves it over point and it races away. The last ball spoils the last over, 11 from it.
Andrew Tye to MS Dhoni, Just the two! A full toss outside off, Dhoni lifts it over cover for two. He did not look to hit that hard, just tried to time it.
Andrew Tye to Dwayne Bravo, No hat-trick but only one! On middle, this is woked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Dwaine Pretorius, NOT ! Three reds! Another successful review by Lucknow and this is a brilliant last over by Tye so far. Two wickets after going for a boundary! This is full and on the leg pole. Dwaine Pretorius looks to flick but misses. He gets hit on the pads. An appeal but turned down. Lucknow review again. Three reds. Tye on a hat-trick.
Review time! A huge appeal for an LBW is turned down. Seems to be going down leg.
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! TAKEN! Tye has his first! Jadeja will be disappointed he could not get that away! It was a full toss on the pads, this is whipped in the air and towards deep mid-wicket. Manish Pandey takes another good catch running to his right. Can Lucknow keep them under 210 now?
Andrew Tye to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Finds the gap and the 200 is up! A full toss on middle, this is heaved through mid-wicket, in the gap and races away to the fence.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Two dots to end! Not a bad over to be honest. Despite a biggie and a boundary, 11 from it and a wicket. Shorter and outside off, Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, Swing and a miss! Outside off, slower one. Dhoni swings but misses.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Carves it over! Poor from Avesh! That is not the line you want to bowl with point and third man up. Outside off, fuller, this is carved over point. 10 from the two balls faced by Dhoni.
Avesh Khan to MS Dhoni, ! Over the fence! Dhoni wastes no time! That is a brute of a shot! Shorter and outside of, this is slammed over the point fence for a biggie. That is another massive hit. Shades of the old Dhoni there.
MS Dhoni walks out to bat now! Can he roll back the years and help Chennai finish on a high?
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, ! TAKEN! That is a brilliant catch! Never easy when it goes so high and with the lights on. Brilliant from Lewis. End of a superb knock from Dube, he deserved a half ton but falls one short of it. Fuller and on middle, Dube looks to go over mid-wicket but hits it high up in the air, Lewis at deep md-wicket runs to his right and takes it with a slide. He does indicate he lost it in the lights so does well to hang on. Can Lucknow finish well now?
Avesh Khan to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowling to his field! Full and outside off, this is carved towards deep point for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Longer side so two more! Fuller and on middle, Dube swings, it goes off the inner half through square leg for two. Another big over for Chennai. 220 is possible now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is massive! Oh my! What a shot! Shorter and on the body, this is pulled and it sails over the square leg fence.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, A low full toss, this is hit down to long on for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, Good placement again! Shorter and on off, Jadeja pushes it wide of sweeper cover. Takes two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ravindra Jadeja, ! That is not the line you want to bowl with mid-wicket up! Short and on middle, this is pulled over mid-wicket. Boundary! Jadeja has two boundaries in 4 balls.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Goes short and on the body, Dube mistimes the pull down to fine leg for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, ! Boundary to end the great spell by Ravi Bishnoi! A fuller delivery on off. Jadeaja drills it to long off for a boundary. Good shot by the skipper.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, A googly this time, it is around off. Jadeja looks to cut it but misses. Dot ball!
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Goes fuller on off. Dube drills it to long off. Hooda does well in the deep and keeps it to just a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ravindra Jadeja, Flatter and shorter around off. Jadeja cuts it hard to sweeper cover for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! BOLWED! Ravi Bishnoi has been the shining light for Lucknow today! This is pushed quicker and flatter and it skids through. Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and looks to heave it across the line. He misses it completely and the ball shatters the stumps. Second wicket for Ravi Bishnoi and end of a fine knock from Ambati Rayudu.
Ravindra Jadeja is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, LEG BYES! This is unlucky for the bowler but that's the way this game goes! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu goes for a big slog-sweep but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards the third man fence for a boundary.
There seems to be some problem with the ball! We have a change of ball now and all set to resume now.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, Two more to end a huge over for Chennai! A low full toss on the pads, this is worked wide of long on for two.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and rolls on the leg side. A run taken.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, ! That is massive, that is massive! Lovely use of the feet, Krunal slows it up and bowls it around off, Rayudu gets to the pitch of it and nails it over the long on fence.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dushmantha Chameera is having a poor day in the field! This is a high full toss on the pads, not high enough to be called a no all. Dube looks to pull, it goes off the inner half to short fine leg where it is dropped. This could prove costly. Dube is in some form here. A single taken.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, ! Dube is in his elements here today! Outside off, this is powered through covers. The fielder in the deep runs to his right and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, On middle, this is worked through square leg for one.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, A leg bye to end another good over for the batting side! Angled into the pads, Rayudu looks to flick but misses. It hits the pad and lobs on the off side. A leg bye taken.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, ! Rayudu hits it well enough! For a second Lewis might have thought he had a chance. Shorter as he sees Rayudu come down the track. He slams it over the long on fence.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, On the bounce! Shorter and on middle, this is pulled towards deep mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Superb from Tye! Shorter and on off, hurries Dube who ends up hitting it to the right of the bowler. Tye dives and saves a run.
Andrew Tye to Ambati Rayudu, Just the one! On middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one. Singles won't harm Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, Another slower one, this is pushed to cover for one.
DRINKS! Lucknow has managed to control the scoring-rate a bit by taking couple of wickets but Chennai are still in the driver's seat. They are going at almost 10 runs an over and Lucknow need good last 6 overs to restrict Chennai under 200 here. Plenty of firepower to follow and Chennai will be disappointed if they don't cross 200 mark from hereon on this very good batting turf.
Andrew Tye to Shivam Dube, WIDE! That does not come out right, looks to bowl a slower one but does so well wide outside off. Left alone.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube hits it hard to wide long on for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu dances down the track and Pandya fires it on middle and leg. Ambati Rayudu looks to defend it but gets the inside edge onto his pads. The ball goes towards short third man for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, A flatter and quciker one on middle. Ambati Rayudu looks to drive but mistimes it towards the leg side.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A fuller delivery on middle. Dube works it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, WIDE! Pandya tries to push it quicker. It is way outside off and Dube leaves it alone.
Krunal Pandya to Ambati Rayudu, Ambati Rayudu skips down the track and Pandya drags it slightly short. Ambati Rayudu works it to deep square leg for a single.
Krunal Pandya to Shivam Dube, A low full toss on middle. Dube hits it to wide long on for a single.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Goes quicker and bit shorter on off. Dube knocks it down to long off and retains a single. 12 runs from the over!
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, A flatter and quicker delivery, around off. Dube looks to cut but mistimes it.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, Slower again and around off. Dube defends it with soft hands towards point.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! This is the power of Shivam Dube! Tossed up and fuller on off. Dube gets under it and tonks it straight down the ground for a biggie.
Deepak Hooda to Shivam Dube, ! Another misfield and another boundary! Short and outside off. Dube cuts it hard towards sweeper cover and the fielder covers the ground but slips at the last moment. The ball goes through him for a boundary.
Deepak Hooda to Ambati Rayudu, Goes fuller on middle. Ambati Rayudu pushes it to long on for a single.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, A quicker delivery around off and it's a googly. Dube looks to defend it but the ball turns and beats the outside edge of his blade.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, On middle and fuller. Ambati Rayudu sweeps it towards deep backward square leg. Krunal Pandya there runs forward and dives but the ball falls just short of him. A single taken. Good effort by Krunal Pandya though.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ohh...the pressure was just building and now the misfield allows a boundary! A fuller delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu drives it to deep cover. Dushmantha Chameera runs to his right but ends up misjudging it and the ball races away towards the fence.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Fuller, outside off. Ambati Rayudu does not use his feet and looks to hit it away but misses.
Ravi Bishnoi to Ambati Rayudu, Dot ball! A flatter delivery and slightly shorter on off. Ambati Rayudu punches it to covers.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Quicker and fuller on off. Dube drives it to covers for a single.
Avesh Khan to Shivam Dube, On the shorter side again, around off. Dube steers it towards third man for a single. Good over by Avesh Khan.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Back of a length, around off. Ambati Rayudu steers it towards third man for a single.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, ! Ambati Rayudu now gets off the mark with a boundary! Lovely shot. It is short, around off. Ambati Rayudu waits for it and just guides it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, Nails a yorker on off. Ambati Rayudu digs it out.
Avesh Khan to Ambati Rayudu, A good-length delivery, around off. Ambati Rayudu leaves it alone.
Ambati Rayudu walks out to bat!
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! BOWLED! What an inspired bowling change by KL Rahul! Avesh Khan has been expensive today but gets a big fish now! Lands on a length, on off. Moeen Ali goes for a big heave across the line but misses. The ball shatters the stumps and Avesh Khan is pumped up. So two set batters gone now and this is an opportunity for Lucknow to get back in this game.
Avesh Khan is back on.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A single to end! Ravi Bishnoi has been really good so far! On middle, this is pushed down to long on for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Lovely from Moeen again! This lands on off and then turns away. Moeen plays inside the line and the ball whizzes past the outside edge.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, That should not have been a run! On off, yet again a googly, Moeen looks to defend but it goes off the outside edge to short third man. A single. The fielder was on his heels there.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, BEATEN! Another good, this lands on off and spins away. Ali looks to push at it but is beaten.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, ! Fortunate runs! This lands outside off and spins away a touch. Moeen looks to push at it, it goes off the outside edge down to third man. 100 up and in no time. 230 is on the cards here.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Almost chops it on! Shorter and outside off, Dube looks to cut but gets an underedge on the off side. A dot to end but the damage was done earlier on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is timed wonderfully! On a length and around off, this is sliding onto the bat nicely, Dube times it through covers, it races away to the fence. Third boundary in the over.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Fuller and on middle, Dube jams it out to mid on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! That is some shot! Just used the pace! He loves width on offer! Full and outside off, he times it over cover for a boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, ! The direction was poor there! Short and down the leg side, Dube helps it on it way towards fine leg. The fielder runs to his left and dives but his effort goes in vain.
Dushmantha Chameera to continue. He will bowl his third over now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Shivam Dube, Short! Dube is not comfortable with that delivery. He fends it away.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, A dot to end a good over by Ravi! A much-needed one for his side. On the pads, this is worked to short fine leg.
Ravi Bishnoi to Moeen Ali, Easy two! On middle, this is worked through wide mid on. Two taken.
Shivam Dube is the next man in.
Ravi Bishnoi to Shivam Dube, Dube is off the mark, flatter and outside off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, ! THREE REDS AND UTHAPPA IS A GONER! Huge wicket as he was taking the game away. Welcome wicket for Lucknow and it is Bishnoi, who had a poor game last time around who provides the breakthrough. This lands on middle, it straightens and skids through. Uthappa goes back to flick but is late in getting his bat down. It hits the pad. A huge appeal but turned down. Reviewed and replays show that the on-field call has to be overturned. A good innings by Uthappa,
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Flatter and on off, this is guided to point.
It's time for Ravi Bishnoi to show his skills now. He is into the attack.
Ravi Bishnoi to Robin Uthappa, Fifty for Uthappa! He has really done well for Chennai since they have included him in the side in the last edition. Gets there by working this fine on the leg side for two.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, A single to end the over then! On middle, slower one. Robin Uthappa flicks it through mid-wicket for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Follows the boundary with a run as this is pushed down to long on.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, ! That is wonderful timing again! A boundary is coming almost every over! Length and on off, this is stroked througyh covers and this one races away to the fence.
Drinks! A much-needed break for Lucknow! What a Powerplay this has been for Chennai, Robin Uthappa is looking like a man on a mission and has smashed Lucknow bowlers all over the park so far. Lucknow has got the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad courtesy of a brilliant piece of fielding by Ravi Bishnoi but Moeen Ali has walked out at number 3 and has started smashing it from the word go. Lucknow need wickets and need them quickly to restrict Chennai to a reasonable total. Dushmantha Chameera is b
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Another run! On off, this is pushed through covers for one.
Dushmantha Chameera to Moeen Ali, Half stop! A good stop though! On off, this is timed well towards cover. The fielder dives to his left and makes a wonderful stop. Just a run.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Good length and on off, this is guided down to third man for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali is playing with the field here! The square leg was pushed back and the mid-wicket was got in. This is bowled shorter. Ali goes back and pulls it over mid-wicket for a boundary. A solid end to a solid Powerplay for Chennai.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! BANG! That hits the cushions on the full! Another biggie! On middle, the slog sweep is out, this is hit over square leg and it hits the cushion on the full.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, ! That is timed wonderfully. On off, flatter, this is driven beautifully through covers. Races away. Chennai are oin a roll here.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Fires it on the pads, this is worked to square leg.
Krunal Pandya to Robin Uthappa, Angled into the pads, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Krunal Pandya to Moeen Ali, Flatter and on middle, this is worked through mid-wicket for one.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! 18 runs from the over! This is slightly short on middle. Robin Uthappa gets a bit across and then slams it towards deep backward square leg for a boundary. He has been given the opening position today and has grabbed it with both hands.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Serves a length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa defends it with soft hand towards square leg and initially looks for only a single but the fielders are slow to approach the ball and the batters run two.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa is on fire here! A length delivery on middle. Robin Uthappa gets across towards the off side and just guides it over short fine leg for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Tye replies with a short delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa sways away from the line of the ball.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! Deft touch this time! Lands on a length, around off. Robin Uthappa opens the face of his blade and steers it fine towards the third man fence for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, ! There is no stopping Robin Uthappa today! It is on the shorter length, on off. Robin Uthappa stays deep in his crease and pulls it towards deep mid-wicket for a boundary.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, On a length, on off at 135.9 kph. Ali gets the leading edge of his blade towards mid off as he looks to push it away.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on off. Ali works it to mid on.
Avesh Khan to Moeen Ali, ! Moeen Ali joins the act now! Avesh Khan has been poor so far. It is short on middle. Ali pulls it over fine leg for a maximum. The extra pace took the ball way over the fence.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa pushes it to mid on and takes a quick single.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Pulls his length back and around off. Robin Uthappa defends it towards the off side.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Robin Uthappa continues with his merry ways! A fullish delivery, around off. Robin Uthappa leans forward and creams a drive through covers for a boundary.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Lands on a length, on middle. Moeen Ali defends it onto the turf. Good over by Andrew Tye and a successful one for Lucknow.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, ! RUN OUT! Brilliant presence of mind shown by Ravi Bishnoi and it's another failure for Ruturaj Gaikwad! Tye serves a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but gets the inside edge onto his pads and the ball goes towards the off side. In the meanwhile, there is a big appeal for LBW but the umpire turns it down. Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to steal a single but is sent back by his partner. However, Ravi Bishnoi is qu
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, Fuller delivery on middle. Ali drives it to mid on.
Andrew Tye to Moeen Ali, On a length, around off. Ali punches it to covers.
Moeen Ali walks out to bat now!
Andrew Tye to Robin Uthappa, Goes slightly shorter on middle. Robin Uthappa mistimes his pull to square leg for a single.
Andrew Tye to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Angling into the pads, Ruturaj Gaikwad tries to work it towards the leg side but misses. The ball brushes his pads and goes towards short fine leg. A leg bye taken.
Change! Andrew Tye has the ball in hand now.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! Another expensive over and Robin Uthappa is showing his class here. On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa just lifts this towards deep mid-wicket and gets another boundary.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on off. Robin Uthappa defends it solidly off the front foot this time.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, ! What a shot! Dushmantha Chameera drifts on the pads. Robin Uthappa just whips it over deep square leg for a biggie. He hit that 83 metres away!
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, Lands on a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Dushmantha Chameera to Robin Uthappa, WIDE! A short ball again and this one also takes off the pitch. It goes over the head of the batter, Robin Uthappa. He ducks under it and Quinton de Kock behind the stumps jumps and stops it. The umpire calls it wide for height.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Goes back of a length, around off. Ruturaj Gaikwad punches it to point for a single.
Dushmantha Chameera to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Starts with a length delivery on middle. Ruturaj Gaikwad works it to mid-wicket.
Who will bowl from the other end then? Dushmantha Chameera it is.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, BYES! So a very expensive first over from Avesh Khan! This one is banged in short, around off. It bounce way too high as Robin Uthappa lets it go. The ball goes over the keeper and races away for a boundary, Quinton de Kock had no chance there as he jumps to catch it.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, On a length, on middle. Robin Uthappa works it past square leg for a couple.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Bangs it short this time, on off. Robin Uthappa looks to duck under it but takes his eyes off. The ball hits his helmet and Manish Pandey takes a catch on the off side. Good short delivery!
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, Back of a length, on off. Robin Uthappa blocks it out.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Ohh...lovely timing again! Lands on a length and around off. Robin Uthappa goes back and punches it through point for a boundary. Robin Uthappa is looking in great touch.
Avesh Khan to Robin Uthappa, ! Welcome to game number 7 of the Indian T20 League 2022! Avesh Khan drifts on the pads straightaway and Robin Uthappa clips it past square leg for a boundary. Superb timing.
Gautam Gambhir, the mentor of Lucknow, says that his role has a lot to do with strategy and helping people and more importantly about getting results their way. Tells that they played well from the situation they were in but they need to learn and it is all about results. Talks about Ayush Badoni and tells that it is too early to talk about him and one innings does not make him a superstar but says that he has talent and that is why he is in the team. Says that it has been good for him so far
We are all set to begin! Lucknow players are in huddle and they disperse now to take their respective positions. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa are the openers for Chennai. Avesh Khan to start with the ball for Lucknow. Can he make the new ball talk. Let's find out. Here we go...
Ravindra Jadeja, the skipper of Chennai, says they wanted to bowl first too as there is some grass on the wicket but now they need to bat well. Tells that they they are blessed to have a huge fan following. Informs that Moeen Ali is back and Milne is out due to an injury and they have three changes in their team.
Chennai (Playing XI) - Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali (In place of Devon Conway), Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja (C), MS Dhoni (WK), Shivam Dube, Dwayne Bravo, Dwaine Pretorius (In place of Mitchell Santner), Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary (In place of Adam Milne).
Lucknow (Playing XI) - KL Rahul (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Evin Lewis, Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Dushmantha Chameera, Andrew Tye (In place of Mohsin Khan), Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan.Â
KL Rahul, the skipper of Lucknow, says they need to play good cricket at the end of the day and they have been watching the other games and the ball really gets wet and hence, they want to bowl first. States he really enjoyed the last game, the boys showed a lot of fight and they showed great character but they are looking forward to this game. Informs they have one change, Andrew Tye comes in for Mohsin Khan.
TOSS - The coin goes up and lands in favour of Lucknow. They have elected to BOWL first.
... MATCH DAY ...
The high-octane action in the 15th edition of the Indian T20 League continues as the defending champions, Chennai get ready to lock horns against a star-studded Lucknow team. Both teams started their campaign with a loss in the opening game and it is an opportunity for them to get their house in order tonight. If Lucknow win, it will be the first victory for the new franchise and they will surely be looking to notch it up against one of the most successful teams in the history of the Indian T20
PITCH REPORT - Graeme Swann is down for a pitch report. Tells that one side boundary is shorter and the other side is longer. He says that there was a bit of extra bounce in the first game on this venue. Tells that the batters were not able to get off the front foot so adds that expect a bit of halfway magic. He tells that the water has been put on the surface since the other day and says that it is a bit greener. Mentions that the pitch is good to bat on but the seamers might get help here.
Lucknow have one of the most celebrated opening pair of the tournament with KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock. However, Â it was the depth in their squad that came to their rescue when the top-order faltered in the opening game. The bowling group too showed tremendous fight defending a modest total in wet conditions and despite a loss, the first game must have surely given them a lot of confidence and we can expect a more clinical display from KL Rahul and his boys in this game.
Chennai, on the other hand, just could not assess the conditions and adapt quickly on a fresh wicket in their opening game. The top-order faltered and after that, they were always behind the game despite MS Dhoni displaying some of his vintage finishing skills. In the bowling department, apart from Dwayne Bravo, everyone else had an ordinary outing but with Moeen Ali all set to be back for this encounter, expect Chennai to come out all guns blazing. Will we see Chennai opening their account on