Mukul Choudhary’s 54* powers LSG past KKR after Pant’s advice

Lucknow Super Giants’ rookie Mukul Choudhary delivered a defining IPL 2026 showing, remaining unbeaten on 54 off 27 as LSG chased down a target against Kolkata Knight Riders to secure a dramatic three-wicket win. After a stuttering finish in the previous outing, Mukul credited a simple message from Rishabh Pant: not to think too much, just see the ball and hit it. He said in the post-match press conference that thinking too much creates pressure and that they believe in him and he should believe in himself. When Ayush bhai went, he added, the thinking shifted to doing the basics well and finishing the job for his team. He explained his plan for the final overs: when the equation was 7 from 4 balls, he knew the bowler would miss at least one ball, and the ball that misses the line, he had to hit for a six and end the game. The first two balls of the over were dots, but he trusted his process and found the boundary that sealed the match. Choudhary highlighted the constant pressure that comes with a debut season, noting that it exists in practice and selection as well as in big moments. There is always pressure in the practice matches too, but it creates an opportunity to carve out an identity. The match is seen as a validation of a rising star and of a leadership mindset in the side. Coach Justin Langer had reportedly spoken of a prophecy around Mukul’s ability, and many now point to this 54 as the moment when that prophecy began to materialize, underscoring the belief that he could be a defining figure of LSG’s campaign. LSG’s chase revived their campaign and added a memorable chapter to IPL 2026, with a young batter showing grit, patience, and a clear plan under lights in Lucknow.

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