- April 23, 2025
So, the Lucknow Super Giants were beaten by the Delhi Capitals…in a home, eight-wicket loss? Ouch. This was their fourth loss in nine matches mind you, and of course, the fans are freaking out about the playoff math. Whether you’re an LSG fan pacing in your living room, or a neutral just enjoying the IPL chaos, you’re probably thinking, Can they still qualify? The good news is that yes, they can. But there are a few hurdles in the way. Let’s explore.
What’s the Magic Number: 14 or 16 Points?
Here’s the thing: Historically, the sweet spot for qualifying for the playoffs is generally about 16 points. LSG is on 10 points and has five matches left (so they can only get to 20 points). These other mid-table teams will also be pulling out all stops to reach the playoffs, so 16 looks like a good cushion. To get there, LSG is required to win 3 out of their 5.
So, here’s the twist – the cut-off has the potential to drop to 14 points this time. If that’s the case, two wins could potentially be sufficient. But, and it’s a massive but, net run rate (NRR) is the tiebreaker. LSG’s NRR is currently? Not so hot at -0.054. So even if they squeak to 14, they’ll need a chunky win and a close loss.
Home Comforts vs Away Headaches
Let’s start by discussing LSG’s remaining schedule. They have only two of their last five games at home in Lucknow, and, to be honest, their final two home games will be tough to predict. They host Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 9, and then conclude at home against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 18. Those next two home games are must-wins without any question or excuse.
Then we have three competition away games, which look tough for any team. They will start with a game against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede on April 27th. If Wankhede is a fortress for MI, that will be a challenge for any visiting team. Then they will travel for a game against the Punjab Kings in Dharamshala on May 4, and then end our road games in Ahmedabad against the Gujarat Titans on May 14.
To be frank, any two wins from these three away games will be tough, but it isn’t impossible. Mumbai has been shaky, PBKS are all over the place, and Gujarat has been inconsistent too. I really think LSG will have to be on their A-game, on the pitch, and if they bowl anywhere like they did in the games in flat tracks, there is not a chance that they will be defending a score of 159 runs!
It’s Not Just Wins—It’s How You Win (Or Lose)
Here is the story. LSG not only have to win, they need to win loads. If LSG can win decisively, their net run-rate will improve; if not, then it will drop like a rock. LSG cannot afford to lose heavily, especially if 14 points becomes the metric for qualifying.
This means executing better in the powerplay, dismissing with fewer soft dismissals, and executing better with their death bowlers. It is great to see Markram return to form, and Marsh and Badoni have shown they can accelerate. Unfortunately for LSG, KL Rahul will need to sharpen his captaincy; aggressive fields, key bowlers, and risk-taking can be the difference between being in the top four and being relegated to being a fan of the playoffs with the rest of us.
And to LSG supporters—hopefully, we have no washouts—rain could turn all the math upside down. So, what do you think—does LSG have what it takes to bounce back and secure that playoff ticket? Or will the pressure & the math get to them? One thing is for certain: it is going to be a crazy ride to the finish. Hang on tight.
For more, visit JeetBuzz News to read our quality Cricket Blog updates. Explore if you want to reminisce and enjoy all of your favourite cricket players and nostalgic match moments. To ensure that you never miss out, keep updated and join in the fun!
