Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s blitz helps Rajasthan keep playoff dreams alive

JAIPUR: Rajasthan Royals pulled off a stunning chase to defeat Lucknow Super Giants by seven wickets in a high-scoring IPL clash on Tuesday. Chasing a massive target of 221, Rajasthan rode on a breathtaking knock from teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi to seal victory in just 19.1 overs and keep their playoff hopes alive. It was their first home victory of the season.

Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi gave Rajasthan a flying start, attacking the Lucknow bowlers from the very beginning. Jaiswal scored 43 runs from 23 balls, while Suryavanshi smashed 93 runs off just 38 deliveries. Suryavanshi’s explosive innings included 10 sixes and seven boundaries. By the time he was dismissed, just seven runs short of a century, Rajasthan’s victory was almost certain. Wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 53 from 38 balls. Donovan Ferreira scored an unbeaten 16 from 10 balls, while Lhuan-dre Pretorius made 7 runs from 6 balls.

With the win, Rajasthan moved to 14 points from 13 matches. If they defeat Mumbai Indians in their final league match, they can qualify for the playoffs without depending on other results. Earlier, batting first, Lucknow Super Giants scored 220 runs for the loss of five wickets in 20 overs. Openers Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis led the scoring with impressive half-centuries. Marsh scored 96 from 58 balls, while Inglis made 60 from 29 deliveries.