The upcoming IPL match on Sunday between defending champions Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants will be a test of wits between the Pandya brothers, Hardik and Krunal. Hardik, who has captained the Indian team on multiple occasions, is leading GT for the second year, while Krunal, who has led the Baroda team in domestic cricket, was elevated to the role of LSG captain in the absence of regular skipper KL Rahul.
The Pandya brothers have become the first brothers to captain teams in the IPL. Under Hardik’s captaincy, GT are currently perched on top of the leader board with 14 points, while LSG, who are second on the points table with 11 points, enter the fixture on the back of a loss to Royal Challengers Bangalore and a washed out game against Chennai Super Kings.
LSG’s regular skipper and pacer Jaydev Unadkat will play no part in this IPL after sustaining a shoulder injury, and their batting unit has been inconsistent, unable to chase or put totals in excess of 130 on the board in their previous two games. The team has blown hot and cold this season, with commanding performances and a self-destruct button that goes off. They have named the experienced Karun Nair as a replacement for Rahul.
In contrast, the Gujarat Titans are coming off a morale-boosting nine-wicket win against Rajasthan Royals, where all their departments fired in unison. The Gujarat bowlers have lived up to their top billing, led by veteran pacer Mohammed Shami and the wily Rashid Khan. The Titans’ batters, who had an off day against Delhi Capitals, came back with vengeance in the last game to decimate the 119-run target in 13.5 overs.
The match will see LSG’s Krunal Pandya and GT’s Hardik Pandya leading opposing teams, making it an exciting prospect for cricket fans. LSG will have to be at their best against a formidable GT bowling attack, while the Titans will aim to continue their good run in the business end of the tournament. With both teams having a lot to play for, it promises to be a thrilling encounter.