Data Shorts: Recurring fast-bowling struggles stall LSG

Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) success in their first two seasons was largely due to impressive bowling numbers. However, their fast-bowling struggles have stalled their campaign in IPL 2025.

LSG's seam attack had the least experience and T20 wickets among the 10 squads at the start of the competition. Their first starting XI suggested that their best chance was to bat their opponents out of the game. However, their bowling shortcomings have been further exposed.

The team's economy rate of 10.64 is the most expensive among all teams, with an average of 38.03. They have been the most expensive fast bowling unit, with three instances of two quicks conceding 50-plus runs in an innings this season.

LSG's reliance on spin bowling has been a key factor in their struggles. They have used more overs of spin than any other team in the powerplay and have been the most expensive bowling side in the phase with an economy of 10.46.

The team's fast bowlers have struggled to contain the opposition, with an economy rate of 10.67 in the first six overs and 11.36 in the death overs. This has resulted in an average of 45.55 in defeats, compared to 23.16 in wins.

LSG's only win in their last five games was brought about by Avesh's brilliance at death, who bagged 3/11 across the 18th and 20th overs to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

The team's top-order has also struggled, with Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh experiencing a dip in form. Rishabh Pant's lack of trust in quicks has also been a concern, with Shardul Thakur being only officially announced as a replacement for Mohsin Khan after the competition started.

LSG's improved show in their weakest suit could just be what they need to set their campaign up and running again.