Former Australia cricketer Matthew Hayden has praised Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) wicketkeeper-batter Nicholas Pooran as the “cleanest hitter in the world” following his explosive cameo in a record chase against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Pooran played a key role in the successful pursuit of a challenging target of 211 at Chepauk, as LSG executed the highest run chase in the history of the stadium.
Stoinis and Pooran Shine in Record Chase
LSG’s successful chase against CSK was powered by Marcus Stoinis’s stunning maiden IPL century, as he remained unbeaten on 124 off 63 balls. Pooran supported him with an impressive cameo, scoring 34 runs off just 15 deliveries. The duo’s contributions helped LSG secure a record win at Chepauk.
Reflecting on LSG’s remarkable batting performance, Hayden praised Pooran for his clean hitting and versatility. He highlighted the 28-year-old’s proficiency against both pace and spin bowling.
“I can say that about Nicholas Pooran as well. The 19 balls that Padikkal took up before his dismissal, that was putting Marcus Stoinis under enormous pressure. When he was bowled this evening, that was probably the best outcome for LSG because it brought in the accelerator to LSG. Nicholas Pooran is the cleanest hitter in the world, I think, in this IPL. Such a talented free hitter of the ball. Got great options against both pace and spin,” Hayden said on Star Sports Cricket Live.
Hayden also noted the competition within the match between the stabilisers of the innings and the finishers. Pooran’s ability to finish games for LSG added to his status as one of the top hitters in the tournament.
Hayden’s Suggestions for Pooran’s Role
Discussing Pooran’s utilisation in the team, Hayden proposed the idea of promoting Pooran up the order alongside Stoinis. He argued that Pooran’s role in international cricket for the West Indies, where he bats higher in the order, could be beneficial for LSG.
“There’s a school of thought that says, we need someone batting in that 5 and 6 position that can bring a game home. And Nicholas Pooran can do exactly that. But then you look at someone like Devdutt Padikkal, who hasn’t had the tournament that you’d expect him to have. And you’ve got a world-class player in Nicky P who can come up the order with Stoinis and bat longer,” Hayden said.
Nicholas Pooran’s impressive performances in the IPL have earned him praise from cricket legends like Matthew Hayden. With his ability to handle various types of bowling and finish games for LSG, Pooran’s role in the team is critical. As LSG navigates the remainder of the tournament, they may look to optimise Pooran’s position in the batting order for maximum impact.
