IPL: Rampaging Sunrisers await wounded LSG in high-stakes clash

After defeat to Delhi in high-scoring thriller, Lucknow face tough task against Hyderabad

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Bruised from a heartbreaking last-over loss to Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) now face a far greater challenge of taming a rampaging Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on their home turf in Thursday's IPL clash.

Sunrisers have lit up the tournament with their ferocious batting, and their record 286/6 against Rajasthan Royals has sent a clear warning to the rest of the league. With the best net run rate so far, Pat Cummins' side sits atop the table and shows no signs of slowing down.

The Hyderabad top order has become a nightmare for bowlers, Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma have provided electric starts, Heinrich Klaasen has been relentless in the middle, and new recruit Ishan Kishan, unleashed after being released by Mumbai Indians, blazed his way to a 47-ball unbeaten 106 in SRH's last match. Nitish Kumar Reddy's late flourish only adds to their batting depth.