IPL 2023 | Predicted XI of Lucknow Super Giants Against Gujarat Titans


image-lgqgnqv6LSG set to face GT [iplt20.com]

The high-flying Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), will take on the defending champions, Gujarat Titans (GT) in a riveting battle on Saturday.

The KL Rahul led side are the joint top team in the IPL standings alongside Rajasthan Royals, and will be eager to continue the winning formula against the Hardik Pandya led Gujarat side.

With a high-octane game set to take place, here's the predicted LSG XI for their clash against GT.

Openers

KL Rahul, Kyle Mayers

Easiest choice to make. Whatever the situation be, KL Rahul and Kyle Mayers will open for the Lucknow side. There is an argument that Quinton de Kock, who is warming the benches should be included in the playing XI, but Mayers' stupendous form has kept the South African international out of the reckoning.

KL Rahul's strike-rate is a big cause of worry, but the LSG skipper should come good against the GT side.


Middle Order

Deepak Hooda, Nicholas Pooran, Marcus Stoinis, Krunal Pandya, Ayush Badoni

The LSG middle-order has looked dodgy throughout the tournament, but Gautam Gambhir has always believed in backing his players. Deepak Hooda has been woeful form, but a player of his calibre should be backed by the team management.

Another game changer in the squad, Nicholas Pooran is a dangerous customer for the opposition. His wrath was felt by RCB a few days ago, and GT bowlers have to be beware of the southpaw's ability to clear any ground.

Stoinis went toe-to-toe alongside Pooran in the onslaught against RCB. Another player who hasn't lived up to his potential, but if Stoinis is in the mood, there's nobody who can stop him.

There was a lot expected of Krunal Pandya, but barring one game, he has led the team down. But as said before, LSG back their players and his ability as an all-rounder will be useful against the GT side.

The rising star of IPL 2022, Badoni has received a lot of criticism for the way he's played. However, if LSG are chasing, and the impact player is needed, Badoni can be a useful choice. His ability to deliver under pressure is second to none.

Bowlers

Ravi Bishnoi, Mark Wood, Amit Mishra, Avesh Khan

Stats won't tell the entire story, but Ravi Bishnoi has been the best spinner of the tournament. His ability to keep things under control under difficult circumstances is top-notch. Moreover, the leg-break bowler is a genuine wicket-taker who can trouble the best in the business.

The second highest wicket-taker in the IPL 2023 so far, Mark Wood will be useful on a track that is two-paced. Wood is an X factor for LSG, and will play a major role against a formidable GT batting lineup.

If the wicket is two-paced and slightly on the slower side, Amit Mishra will be a useful commodity. An experienced bowler, his skills are still unmatched, and he will bring in a lot of knowledge against some of the best spin playing batters in that Gujarat squad.

A bowler who has blown hot and cold, Avesh Khan brings in that extra zip that LSG needs. If the wicket has any bounce, he will utilise it to perfection.