Abdul Samad’s Late Blitz Pushes LSG to 196 Against Punjab Kings

Lucknow, May 2026 : Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) posted a competitive total of 196 runs against Punjab Kings in their IPL 2026 clash, powered by a late surge from Abdul Samad and steady contributions from the middle order at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Captain Rishabh Pant managed 26 runs, while Ayush Badoni provided momentum in the middle overs with a brisk 43-run innings. The foundation of LSG’s total, however, was strengthened in the final phase of the innings as Abdul Samad delivered a powerful unbeaten knock of 37 runs off just 20 balls. His innings included 3 fours and 3 sixes, giving LSG the crucial finishing push.

Arjun Tendulkar also remained unbeaten, contributing 5 runs as LSG accelerated towards the end. The team added 49 runs in the last five overs, ensuring a strong finish and pushing their total to a challenging 196.

Among the Punjab Kings bowlers, Yuzvendra Chahal stood out with an impressive spell. The leg-spinner picked up 2 wickets for just 25 runs in his four overs, maintaining tight control in the middle phase of the innings. Marco Jansen also chipped in effectively, claiming 2 wickets to keep LSG from building even bigger partnerships.

However, Punjab’s bowling attack was let down by Arshdeep Singh, who proved expensive, conceding 52 runs in his three overs. His costly spell allowed LSG to regain momentum during the death overs and significantly boost their final total.

With LSG finishing at 196, the match is set up for a tense chase as Punjab Kings have been given a target of 197 runs in 20 overs. The Kings will now need a strong batting performance to overcome the target and stay alive in the contest.

The innings saw a mix of controlled batting in the middle overs and aggressive hitting at the death, with Samad’s late flourish proving decisive in pushing LSG to a formidable score.