Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are set to host Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 16th match of IPL 2025 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on April 4. This clash marks LSG's first home fixture of the season, and the team will aim to capitalize on home advantage after a strong win against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last outing.
Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, are also entering the contest with momentum, having registered a dominant victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. Both teams are looking to climb up the points table and continue their winning form.
The pitch at the Ekana Cricket Stadium has undergone significant changes since its relaying ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup. The revamped surface now offers a more batting-friendly experience, with even bounce and good pace, making it conducive to stroke play.
While the surface supports batters, bowlers—both pacers and spinners—can also find assistance, especially during the powerplay overs. Seamers benefit from early movement, while spinners come into play as the game progresses. Due to its balanced nature, captains winning the toss may prefer to bowl first to utilize any early help and chase under lights.
Matches Played: 8
Wins Batting First: 3
Wins Batting Second: 5
Average 1st Innings Score: 181/6
Lowest Total Defended: 163
Highest Target Chased: 197
200+ Totals Registered: 1
Average Sixes Per Match: 14
Pace Bowlers
Overs: 63%
Wickets: 63
Bowling Average: 28.6
Economy Rate: 9.3
Spinners
Overs: 37%
Wickets: 27
Bowling Average: 34.6
Economy Rate: 8.3
These stats indicate that pacers have been more effective at the venue, but spinners can play a crucial role, especially in the middle overs.
1st Innings Score ≥180:
Matches: 3
Batting First Wins: 1
Chasing Wins: 1
1st Innings Score <180:
Matches: 5
Batting First Wins: 1
Chasing Wins: 4
This data reinforces the idea that chasing has offered a slight edge at this ground, particularly when scores are under 180.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Matches: 15
Wins: 7
Losses: 7
No Result: 1
Win Percentage: 55%
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Matches: 2
Wins: 0
Losses: 2
Win Percentage: 0%
MI will look to break their losing streak at this venue, while LSG will hope their home advantage plays in their favor.
In the most recent IPL match held at the Ekana Stadium, Punjab Kings outplayed LSG, chasing down a target of 171 with ease. PBKS clinched victory by eight wickets in just 16.2 overs, highlighting the potential for high-scoring chases on this pitch.
As LSG and MI lock horns in Lucknow, expect an intense contest fueled by solid form and strategic gameplay. The pitch should offer an exciting balance for both batters and bowlers, setting the stage for another thrilling IPL encounter.