IPL match preview: Lucknow Super Giants v Delhi Capitals
This will be the first time the Super Giants have played at their home ground after the IPL returned to its home and away format. That's a big advantage, as Delhi don't always travel well. It'll be interesting to see how quickly both teams adapt to the pace - or lack thereof - of the pitch.
KL Rahul.The Super Giants recruited well in gaining Nicholas Pooran. The West Indian big-hitter can add a lot of firepower to the middle order, especially if Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul get going quickly through the opening powerplay.
The loss of left-arm seamer Mohsin Khan will limit Lucknow's bowling resources, but the presence of the veteran Jayden Unadkat should settle some concerns. And in Ravi Bishnoi, the Super Giants have an excellent wrist spinner.
The big news out of the Delhi camp at the start of the tournament is the appointment of David Warner as captain. He's doing the job in the absence of Rishabh Pant, who will be sidelined for an extended period of sustaining several injuries in a motor vehicle accident.
Warner has been an IPL mainstay for a long time. This is a new chapter, of sorts, for his Indian Premier League journey. If he comes up against fellow Australian and Lucknow recruit Marcus Stoinis, it could be an intriguing one-one-one battle.
The Lucknow Super Giants beat the Delhi Capitals on both occasions during the 2022 IPL. The home team are looking good to make it three in three.
Krunal Pandya is a big asset for the Super Giants. He is probably not as famous as his brother, Hardik Pandya, but can offer similar value with bat and ball. Lucknow also have England fast bowler Mark Wood for some out-and-out pace.
Ricky Ponting is expecting a lot from Prithvi Shaw this season. The opening batsman has been through some career turmoil off the field, but could put all that behind him with a big season, according to the Delhi head coach. New vice-captain Axar Patel also has a big role to play - with bat and ball - for the Capitals.
Delhi are looking good for a turnaround on last season's brace of defeats to the Super Giants. The appointment of new captain Warner is an inspired move. Their bowling attack looks balanced and they bat deep. Lucknow could really struggle without Mohsin.