Rajasthan made a 'Royal' start to their IPL 2024 campaign as they beat the Lucknow Super Giants by 20 runs in Jaipur in the 1st game of a super Sunday.
Rajasthan's decision to bat first proved right as skipper Sanju Samson led from the front with an unbeaten 82 in 52 balls and guided his side to a healthy 193/4. He struck 3 fours and 6 sixes while adding 93 runs for the third wicket with Riyan Parag (43).
Lucknow's run-chase began on a disastrous note as they found themselves 3 down with just 11 runs on the board.
That's when KL Rahul dropped anchor and kept his side in the contest with a gritty 44-ball-58. He had a decent support from Deepak Hooda but he went back after a fiery 13-ball-26.
Nicholas Pooran then supported his skipper as the two put together an 85-run stand for the 5th wicket before Rahul departed in the 17th over.
Pooran cut loose post that but his unbeaten 64 off 41 balls went in vain as LSG finished on 173/6.
While Rajasthan next take on the Delhi Capitals at the same ground on Thursday, LSG will head back home and will host the Punjab Kings in Lucknow on Saturday.
Brief scores:
Rajasthan Royals: 193/4 20 overs (Sanju Samson 82 not out, Riyan Parag 43) beat LSG 173/6 (Nicholas Pooran 64 not out, KL Rahul 58, Trent Boult 2/35).