In IPL 2025, the Lucknow Super Giants faced a narrow defeat against the Delhi Capitals in a close match on Monday. At one point, Lucknow’s win prediction was 98 percent, but it completely shifted in the last five overs of Delhi’s innings. The prediction changed so dramatically that Delhi ended up winning with three balls to spare in the final over. After the loss, Lucknow’s assistant coach, Lance Klusener, said they had no choice but to rely on alternative players until the injured ones return.

Four Lucknow Fast Bowlers Injured

The Lucknow Super Giants faced a major blow even before the IPL 2025 season began. Four of their fast bowlers—Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Akashdeep—sustained injuries. These players are currently at the NCA (National Cricket Academy) undergoing rehabilitation and are waiting for fitness clearance. As a result, Lucknow had to field other bowlers, including Shardul Thakur, Prince Yadav, Digvesh, and M Siddharth, in Monday’s match.

Lucknow Bowlers Failed to Defend 209 Runs

Despite scoring a strong total of 209 runs in their opening match against the Delhi Capitals, Lucknow’s bowlers failed to defend the target. Even after a solid start, dew became a factor in the match, favoring the Delhi Capitals. Eventually, Delhi chased the target with three balls remaining.

Klusener: ‘We Have Limited Bowling Options Right Now’

After the match, assistant coach Lance Klusener acknowledged the team’s struggles. He said, “We don’t have many options in bowling right now. Until our injured players recover and return, we will have to rely on alternate players.”

Batters Must Step Up in Upcoming Matches

Klusener added, “This is the nature of the game. In our next match against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad, our batsmen will need to take on more responsibility, just like they did in this match.” He also praised young players, saying, “This situation gives opportunities to some young players. Shardul Thakur taking two wickets in the first over made me very happy.”