Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper KL Rahul explained the main reason behind promoting Marcus Stoinis to No.3 in the batting order after the Australian all-rounder helped his team pull off a stunning victory against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Chepauk on Tuesday (April 23).
In the mammoth chase of 211, Stoinis slammed 124 not out off 63 balls as LSG got over the finishing line with six wickets and three deliveries to spare. His knock was studded with 13 fours and 6 sixes.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Rahul said they needed to be braver during the powerplay overs and thought it was best to have a power-hitter in the top three.
“Very special, especially when it’s a game like that. We were way behind the game when we were batting so it was very special to pull it off. It was a fresh start, both teams started off at 0. Different conditions here. I think they started off really well and put us under pressure. 170-180 would’ve been a great total here but they batted really well,” Rahul said.
"Full credit to Stoinis. It was not just power hitting, it was very clever batting. He picked his bowlers and played very well," he added.
On sending Stoinis at No. 3, the LSG captain said: "We felt like we needed to be braver and capitalize the powerplay and needed 1 power-hitter in the top-3. I’ve realized that T20 cricket has changed in the past couple of years, 170-180 doesn’t always cut it. You need to go harder in the powerplay and the impact player rule also gives you a bit more depth."
Rahul also went on to say that apart from the openers, the rest of the batting order is looking to remain flexible throughout the season.
"There’s no set plan, apart from the openers, everyone else is ready to go out whenever we feel it's right. We’re going to keep it flexible," he remarked.
It was LSG’s fifth victory in eight games this season. They are currently holding the fourth spot in the 10-team points table.
Lucknow Super Giants will next face table-toppers Rajasthan Royals at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday (April 27).
