‘Just the first game, not going to over-analyse’ – KL Rahul after LSG’s defeat against RR

KL Rahul (Photo Source: IPL/BCCI)

The first game on Sunday, March 24 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 saw Rajasthan Royals defeating Lucknow Super Giants by 20 runs at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

Chasing a stiff target of 194, the Lucknow-based franchise lost three wickets inside the first four overs before half-centuries from skipper KL Rahul and vice-captain Nicholas Pooran helped them get closer to the target. However, Rajasthan bowlers were excellent at the death and they restricted the Lucknow batters commendably.

After the match, Rahul asserted that he would not analyse this defeat too much as it is just LSG’s first game of the new season. Instead, he was happy with how his team bounced back after being reduced to 11/3 inside the first four overs.

“It is just the first game and I am not going to make too much out of it or over-analyse. Powerplay is crucial for every team, and I don’t think any team has cracked it yet. Mohsin was our powerplay bowler in the first season, but he wasn’t fully fit last season. Good to see him back. Naveen has been crucial for us since he has come in,” Rahul said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Also Read: IPL 2024: RR vs LSG, Match 4 Highlights: Unmissable video recap, turning points, match analysis, stats, and more

“I don’t think the target was a lot. It was just 10 over par. We bowled well in patches. Just made a few mistakes. We will learn from the small mistakes we made. When we are three [down] for nothing, and we give ourselves a chance of chasing 194 speaks of our line-up. But we need to find ways to win games of cricket. We’ll try to build from here, and see where we can get stronger. When you get runs, you always feel good. But it’s important for us to end up on the winning side. That gives more satisfaction,” Rahul added.

Justin Langer has brought a lot of calmness to the group: KL Rahul

Former Australian opener Justin Langer joined Lucknow Super Giants as their new head coach ahead of IPL 2024, replacing Andy Flower, who moved to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Rahul spoke about the calmness Langer has brought into the LSG dressing room and lauded his achievements during his stint as Australia’s head coach.

Also read: ‘If we have team success, everyone will be rewarded’ – Justin Langer notes importance of IPL performances for T20 World Cup selection

“Langer’s brought a lot of calmness to the group. I stole his line when I said we need to find ways to win games of cricket. We enjoy having him around. All of us have watched him coach Australia to a T20 World Cup win and an Ashes victory,” Rahul, who scored a 44-ball 58, said.

Super Giants will face Punjab Kings in their next game on Saturday, March 30 at their home ground – BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.