Thakur stars as Lucknow notch first win over Gujarat
Lucknow, India – With a dominant display of bowling brilliance, Lucknow Super Giants outclassed Gujarat Titans by 33 runs at home in their Indian Premier League (IPL) clash on Sunday. Young Indian seamer Yash Thakur stole the show, claiming the first five-wicket haul (5-30) of this year’s IPL to dismantle the Titans’ chase.
Chasing a modest 164 set by Lucknow, Gujarat’s batting imploded under Thakur’s fiery spell. The 25-year-old, yet to receive his international cap, ripped through the middle order, taking two crucial wickets in the 19th over to extinguish any hopes of a comeback. This victory marks a significant milestone for Lucknow, finally breaking their losing streak against Gujarat after five previous encounters.
Earlier, Lucknow’s batting innings revolved around a gritty half-century (58) from Marcus Stoinis. While the total seemed underwhelming, the bowling unit, spearheaded by Thakur, proved more than enough. Left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya provided excellent support, bagging three wickets, including a crucial dismissal of Sai Sudarshan (31) that derailed Gujarat’s chase.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi also chipped in with a sensational return catch to dismiss the dangerous Kane Williamson for a solitary run.