LSG vs MI IPL 2025 preview & cricket betting Tips | Match 16

LSG v MI best bets

Lucknow Super Giants vs Mumbai Indians match preview

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will be looking to bounce back when they host the Mumbai Indians (MI) in Match 16 of IPL 2025 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday, April 5 (AEDT).

Both teams sit level on two points after three games, with MI ahead on net run rate.

LSG started the season with promise but have struggled for consistency. Their most recent outing saw them fall short against the Punjab Kings at home, despite another fluent knock from Nicholas Pooran. The West Indian left-hander has been in red-hot form, leading the Orange Cap standings (most runs) and carrying LSG’s batting lineup almost single-handedly.

Where LSG have faltered is with the ball. They’ve conceded big totals in all three of their matches so far, including a bruising encounter with Sunrisers Hyderabad where they were on the receiving end of the second-highest IPL score ever.

On the other side, the Mumbai Indians seem to be finding their rhythm. After back-to-back losses to open the season, they roared back with a dominant eight-wicket win over the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders.

Ashwani Kumar was the star with the ball, grabbing 4/24 and ripping through the KKR middle order, while Ryan Rickelton looked composed at the top with an unbeaten 62.

The Super Giants do hold a strong record against Mumbai, winning five of the six head-to-head clashes since joining the league in 2022, including the last three. But with Mumbai’s confidence now on the rise and LSG’s bowling unit still leaking runs, this contest feels tighter than ever.

One major factor will be the surface in Lucknow. Traditionally a slower wicket that aids spinners, the Ekana Stadium could suit MI’s more varied bowling attack, especially if they can keep Pooran quiet early.

Lucknow Super Giants vs Mumbai Indians predictions

Nicholas Pooran is in sublime touch, topping the Orange Cap standings and scoring 30+ in every game so far. He also smashed 61 off 27 the last time he faced MI. If LSG are to post or chase a competitive total, it’s likely he’ll be at the centre of it again. Pooran to clear 50 at +210 with BetOnline is a great bet.

After his match-winning 4/24 against KKR, Ashwani Kumar looks to have found his rhythm. On a slower pitch in Lucknow, his variations could come into play again. He’s a serious threat with the new ball and at the death. The +440 for Ashwani Kumar to top MI’s wicket takers is great value with online bookmakers.

With power-hitters like Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, and David Miller, Lucknow have the muscle to clear the ropes regularly. Despite MI’s strong batting, their top order has relied more on timing and placement. Expect LSG to lead in the six-hitting stakes.

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