In a scintillating clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday, April 23, Marcus Stoinis emerged as the ultimate game-changer. Facing a daunting target of 211 runs, LSG promoted Stoinis to the No. 3 spot, a decision that proved to be a masterstroke.
The Australian all-rounder unleashed a batting spectacle, crafting an unbeaten century with sheer brilliance. Stoinis’ blade-carved 124* runs off just 63 deliveries, adorned with six towering sixes and 13 exquisite boundaries. His onslaught propelled LSG to a thrilling six-wicket victory, clinched in the final over of the match.
In a testament to Stoinis’ nerves of steel, he exhibited remarkable calmness under pressure, guiding his team to victory with three balls to spare, despite requiring 17 runs off the last over. Mumbai Indians’ star Suryakumar Yadav was among those mesmerized by Stoinis’ blitzkrieg. Taking to Instagram, Yadav lauded the LSG dynamo, likening his performance to that of the superhero Hulk, accompanied by resounding applause emojis.
Stoinis’ heroic innings not only secured a crucial win for LSG but also garnered admiration from peers like Yadav, cementing his status as a force to be reckoned with in the IPL 2024 season.