Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) kick off their IPL 2026 campaign with a crucial clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 5 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Led by Rishabh Pant, LSG will be eager to turn the page after an underwhelming previous season. On paper, their strength clearly lies in a power-packed batting lineup featuring Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Josh Inglis, and Nicholas Pooran.
However, concerns remain around their bowling depth, with Mohammed Shami expected to shoulder the bulk of responsibility as the senior pacer. Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, enter the season with a sense of stability and purpose.
Under the leadership of Axar Patel, DC has retained a strong core that includes experienced names like KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc, and Karun Nair, along with emerging talents such as Tristan Stubbs and Abishek Porel. After narrowly missing out on the playoffs last season with a fifth-place finish, DC will be determined to go one step further this time.
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The head-to-head record between the two sides adds an intriguing layer to this contest. Delhi Capitals currently lead 4-3, having bounced back strongly after losing the first three meetings to LSG. Interestingly, DC also hold a slight advantage at the Ekana Stadium, winning two of the three matches played at this venue.
As for conditions, the Ekana pitch is traditionally known to assist bowlers, particularly spinners. While it may not be a high-scoring surface, it generally offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. With dew likely to play a role in the second innings, the toss could prove decisive in shaping the outcome of this evenly poised encounter.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
LSG will miss Wanindu Hasaranga for the opener due to fitness concerns flagged by Sri Lanka Cricket. A major boost, however, is the return of Mayank Yadav, who is fully fit after missing the entire 2025 season. His pace and aggression add a fresh edge to LSG’s bowling plans.
The franchise has also bolstered its attack by bringing in Mohammed Shami from Sunrisers Hyderabad, while the addition of Anrich Nortje further enhances their pace depth. With Avesh Khan and emerging options alongside them, LSG’s bowling unit looks far more threatening this season.
Probable XI: Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant (C & WK), Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Anrich Nortje, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Digvesh Rathi.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
DC will face an early setback with Mitchell Starc ruled out due to a shoulder and elbow injury. In his absence, Lungi Ngidi will spearhead the pace attack, supported by Dushmantha Chameera. The spin responsibilities will rest on Kuldeep Yadav and skipper Axar Patel, ensuring balance despite the setback.
Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Axar Patel (C), Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Auqib Nabi, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi
