In the electrifying encounter between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2024 opener, it was the heroics of RR skipper, Sanju Samson, that stole the show. Despite losing their star openers, Jaiswal and Buttler, early in the innings, Samson’s unbeaten 82 propelled RR to a formidable total of 193 runs. Lucknow’s valiant effort, led by Nicholas Pooran’s impressive 64, fell short by 20 runs in the end.

The early setback of losing their openers by the fifth over could have unsettled RR, but with Samson still at the crease, there was a sense of calm in the dressing room. Samson has established a reputation for delivering standout performances at the beginning of IPL seasons, and this match was no exception.

Samson’s unbeaten knock, comprising 82 runs off 52 balls, adorned with three fours and six sixes, proved to be the cornerstone of RR’s victory. This marked Samson’s fifth consecutive fifty-plus score in the opening match of an IPL season, a testament to his consistency and caliber as a player.

Facing a challenging track, RR needed Samson to anchor the innings after the early dismissals of Buttler and Jaiswal. Despite the setbacks, Samson held firm and found support from Riyan Parag, who capitalized on his promotion to No. 4 with a vital contribution of 43 runs off 29 balls.

In pursuit of a daunting target, LSG’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing key wickets to Trent Boult and Yuzvendra Chahal. However, a resilient partnership between K.L. Rahul and Nicholas Pooran momentarily revived LSG’s hopes. Rahul’s gritty 58 and Pooran’s unbeaten 64 kept LSG in the hunt, but RR’s bowlers, led by Sandeep Sharma, ensured there was no late resurgence, sealing a 20-run victory for the hosts.

Samson’s stellar performance not only secured victory for RR but also set the tone for their campaign in IPL 2024. As the tournament progresses, RR will look to build on this momentum, with Samson leading from the front with his exemplary leadership and batting prowess.