The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) faced a disappointing 54-run defeat against the Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh, marking their fourth loss of the IPL 2026 season. In an attempt to find a stable batting lineup, LSG experimented by promoting Ayush Badoni to open the innings alongside Mitchell Marsh. Badoni managed a brisk 35 runs off 21 balls, helping to establish a 61-run opening partnership. Despite this, the team's inability to accelerate during the middle overs proved detrimental, as they failed to hit a boundary between the 8th and 10th overs. Captain Rishabh Pant defended the decision, stating it was a pre-planned strategy aimed at fostering a free approach at the top of the order. Moving Aiden Markram down to No. 5, he contributed 42 runs off 22 balls but could not prevent the loss. LSG will next face the Rajasthan Royals on April 22, seeking to improve their performance and address their batting combination issues.