The Lucknow Super Giants host the Kolkata Knight Riders tonight at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium for one of the most-anticipated fixtures of IPL 2026. With KKR's spin-heavy attack expected to thrive on Ekana's slow surface, and LSG's explosive batting led by Nicholas Pooran ready to counter, this LSG vs KKR clash has all the makings of a tactical thriller. Below, our cricket desk breaks down the complete match preview, prediction, stats, and dream11 tips.
LSG vs KKR match prediction — who will win today?
★ Our Pick
to win at Ekana
KKR have the more balanced unit on a slow Ekana pitch, with Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy ideally suited to spin-friendly conditions. KKR's batting depth — Salt, Narine, Iyer, Russell, Rinku — is the deepest in the league. However, LSG's home advantage, KL Rahul's record at Ekana, and Nicholas Pooran's recent form make this far from one-sided.
Based on form, conditions, and historical data, Kolkata Knight Riders are slight favourites for the LSG vs KKR today match. The Ekana pitch traditionally favours spin from over 8 onwards, and KKR's spin duo of Narine and Chakaravarthy presents a stiff challenge for any batting unit. That said, LSG's middle order led by Pooran and Stoinis gives them the firepower to chase down anything KKR puts on the board.
Match details — LSG vs KKR IPL 2026
| Tournament | Tata IPL 2026 |
|---|---|
| Match | Lucknow Super Giants vs Kolkata Knight Riders |
| Date | Sunday, April 26, 2026 |
| Match start | 7:30 PM IST (2:00 PM GMT) |
| Toss time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow |
| Capacity | ~50,000 |
| Live TV | Star Sports Network |
| Live streaming | JioHotstar (Disney+ Hotstar) |
| Live betting odds | Available on Winkaro247 ID |
Ekana Stadium pitch report — LSG vs KKR today
The BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium pitch is among the more unpredictable in the IPL — capable of producing both low-scoring thrillers and run-fests. Here's what to expect for the LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 match:
- Pitch type: Slow, two-paced surface that grips the ball
- Pace bowling: Limited swing; cutters and back-of-length deliveries are most effective
- Spin bowling: Significant grip and turn from over 8 onwards; mystery spinners excel here
- Average 1st innings score: 160-170 in evening matches
- Highest score chased: 199 (rare — most chases struggle past 175)
- Toss factor: Captains winning toss usually elect to bowl first
- Dew factor: Light dew arrives after 9 PM IST, making it slightly easier for batters in the second innings
Pitch verdict for LSG vs KKR today: A typical Ekana surface where 170+ would be a competitive first innings total. Spinners will dominate the middle overs. The team winning the toss should bowl first to capitalise on dew during the chase.
LSG vs KKR head-to-head record
The LSG vs KKR head-to-head rivalry started in 2022 when LSG joined the IPL. Despite the relatively young rivalry, both teams have produced some memorable encounters with KKR holding a slight upper hand. Here's the complete H2H record:
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Total matches | 7 |
| KKR wins | 4 |
| LSG wins | 3 |
| Matches at Ekana | 2 |
| LSG wins at Ekana | 1 |
| KKR wins at Ekana | 1 |
| Highest LSG total | 235/6 |
| Highest KKR total | 232/4 |
| Last meeting (IPL 2025) | KKR won by 27 runs |
KKR lead the overall LSG vs KKR head-to-head record 4-3, but the home and away tilt at Ekana is even at 1-1. With home crowd support, LSG will look to swing the venue-specific record in their favour tonight.
LSG predicted playing 11 vs KKR today
| # | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | KL Rahul (c & wk) | Captain & opening batter |
| 2 | Quinton de Kock | Opening batter |
| 3 | Devdutt Padikkal | Top-order batter |
| 4 | Nicholas Pooran | Middle-order batter |
| 5 | Marcus Stoinis | All-rounder |
| 6 | Ayush Badoni | Middle-order batter |
| 7 | Krunal Pandya | All-rounder |
| 8 | Ravi Bishnoi | Leg-spinner |
| 9 | Naveen-ul-Haq | Right-arm pacer |
| 10 | Mohsin Khan | Left-arm pacer |
| 11 | Mayank Yadav | Right-arm express pacer |
KKR predicted playing 11 vs LSG today
| # | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sunil Narine | Opening batter / off-spinner |
| 2 | Phil Salt (wk) | Opening batter & wicket-keeper |
| 3 | Ajinkya Rahane (c) | Captain & top-order batter |
| 4 | Venkatesh Iyer | Middle-order batter |
| 5 | Andre Russell | Power-hitter / pacer |
| 6 | Rinku Singh | Finisher |
| 7 | Ramandeep Singh | All-rounder |
| 8 | Mitchell Starc | Left-arm pacer |
| 9 | Varun Chakaravarthy | Mystery spinner |
| 10 | Anukul Roy | Left-arm spinner |
| 11 | Harshit Rana | Right-arm pacer |
Top players to watch — LSG vs KKR
LSG's anchor and biggest threat. 242+ runs in LSG vs KKR meetings. His record at Ekana is exceptional and he plays spin exceedingly well.
KKR's match-winner. 11 wickets vs LSG plus explosive opening batter. The most valuable Dream11 pick on either side.
LSG's most explosive hitter. 198 runs vs KKR with a strike rate over 175. Particularly dangerous against spin in the middle overs.
9 wickets in LSG vs KKR meetings. Ekana conditions perfectly suit his variations. Crucial in the middle overs.
LSG vs KKR dream11 prediction & tips
Building a winning LSG vs KKR dream11 team requires understanding the venue, current form, and dream11 fantasy points logic. Based on Ekana conditions and player form, here are our top dream11 picks for the LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 match:
Captain pick
Sunil Narine (KKR) — Opens for KKR, bowls 4 overs, and gets bonus points for both wickets and boundaries. Best captain choice for the LSG vs KKR dream11 team today.
Vice-captain pick
Nicholas Pooran (LSG) — In peak form, plays spin exceptionally, and bats in the most fantasy-friendly position. Top vice-captain choice.
Top batting picks
- KL Rahul (LSG) — Form opener, plays both pace and spin
- Phil Salt (KKR) — Aggressive opener, capable of big scores
- Andre Russell (KKR) — Power-hitter with bowling upside
- Quinton de Kock (LSG) — Wicket-keeper option with batting upside
- Rinku Singh (KKR) — Finisher value in last 5 overs
Top bowling picks
- Varun Chakaravarthy (KKR) — Premier wicket-taker at Ekana
- Ravi Bishnoi (LSG) — Home conditions favour leg-spin
- Mitchell Starc (KKR) — Powerplay and death specialist
- Mayank Yadav (LSG) — Express pace, hits 150+ kph
- Mohsin Khan (LSG) — Left-arm new-ball specialist
All-rounder picks
- Sunil Narine (KKR) — Captain choice
- Andre Russell (KKR) — Bats in top 6, bowls 2-4 overs
- Marcus Stoinis (LSG) — Bats in middle order, bowls medium pace
- Krunal Pandya (LSG) — Batting all-rounder, key in middle overs
Live betting odds — LSG vs KKR today
Pre-match betting odds for the LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 match (subject to change at toss and live in-play):
Fancy & session market predictions
Based on Ekana averages and current form, here are our predictions for the popular fancy and session markets for the LSG vs KKR today match:
| Market | Predicted Range |
|---|---|
| Powerplay runs (1st innings) | 50-60 |
| 10-over score (1st innings) | 80-95 |
| 15-over score (1st innings) | 120-138 |
| Total fours in match | 30-38 |
| Total sixes in match | 13-18 |
| Total wickets in match | 11-14 |
| Top batter — runs threshold | 52-68 |
| Top bowler — wickets | 3-4 |
Weather forecast — Lucknow today
| Time | Conditions |
|---|---|
| 6:00 PM IST | Clear skies, 38°C, light breeze |
| 7:30 PM IST (Match start) | Clear, 36°C, humidity 55% |
| 9:00 PM IST | Clear, 32°C, light dew arriving |
| 10:30 PM IST | Clear, 30°C, moderate dew |
| Rain probability | 5% |
Weather verdict: No rain interruption expected. Light to moderate dew from 9 PM onwards may favour the team chasing in the second innings — making it slightly easier to time the ball.
Key match-up battles
KL Rahul vs Sunil Narine
The most-watched matchup of LSG vs KKR. Rahul plays mystery spin exceptionally well, but Narine has dismissed him three times in IPL history. Whoever wins this powerplay battle likely sets the tone for the innings.
Nicholas Pooran vs Varun Chakaravarthy
Pooran is the most destructive middle-order batter in the IPL today; Chakaravarthy is KKR's premier wicket-taker. Expect Chakaravarthy to be introduced as soon as Pooran walks in to test him with the turning ball.
Andre Russell vs Mayank Yadav
Russell vs Mayank's express pace is one of the most exciting matchups of IPL 2026. Mayank consistently bowls 150+ kph; Russell is one of the few batters who can match that pace with his hitting.
How to watch LSG vs KKR live in India
- TV broadcast: Star Sports Network — Star Sports 1, 2, 3, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, Marathi, Malayalam
- Live streaming: JioHotstar (formerly Disney+ Hotstar) — available on web, mobile app, and connected TV
- Live commentary: Available in 8 Indian languages
- Live score updates: Cricbuzz, ESPNCricinfo, official IPL website iplt20.com
- Live betting odds: Winkaro247 ID — log in for ball-by-ball odds, fancy markets, and session bets
LSG vs KKR — final match prediction summary
★ Final Verdict
If KKR bat first and post 175+, their spin duo of Narine and Chakaravarthy should be enough to defend on a slowing Ekana surface. If they bowl first, dew could complicate matters but their batting depth is enough to chase 180. Toss matters significantly. Our final pick: Kolkata Knight Riders to win by 10-15 runs.
LSG vs KKR today match — FAQ
Who will win today LSG vs KKR match in IPL 2026?+
Based on current form, head-to-head record, and playing 11 strength, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are slight favourites to win the IPL 2026 match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). KKR's spin-heavy attack led by Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy is well-suited to Ekana Stadium's slow surface. However, LSG's home advantage and the explosive Nicholas Pooran make this a closely contested match.
What time does the LSG vs KKR match start today?+
The LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 match starts at 7:30 PM IST today at BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. The toss takes place at 7:00 PM IST, 30 minutes before the first ball. Live coverage begins at 6:30 PM IST.
Where is LSG vs KKR match being played today?+
The LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 match is being played at BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium (also known as Ekana International Cricket Stadium) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Ekana is LSG's home ground with a capacity of approximately 50,000.
What is the Ekana Stadium pitch report for LSG vs KKR today?+
The Ekana Stadium pitch is traditionally a slow, two-paced surface that favours spinners and offers grip for fast bowlers using cutters and slower balls. Average first innings score at Ekana is 160-170. Spinners get significant turn from over 8 onwards. The pitch tends to slow down further under lights, making chasing slightly tougher unless heavy dew arrives.
What is the head-to-head record between LSG and KKR?+
In total IPL meetings between LSG and KKR, the head-to-head record is 4-3 in KKR's favour. At Ekana Stadium specifically, the record is tied 1-1. The most recent meeting was in IPL 2025 where KKR won by 27 runs. In their last 5 meetings, the team batting first has won 3 times.
Who is captain of LSG in IPL 2026?+
KL Rahul is the captain of Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026. Rahul has been instrumental to LSG's batting line-up as both opener and leader, with strong stats at Ekana Stadium.
Who is captain of KKR in IPL 2026?+
Ajinkya Rahane continues as captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026 after taking over leadership in IPL 2025. Rahane brings tactical maturity and stability to the KKR top order.
What is LSG's predicted playing 11 vs KKR today?+
LSG's likely playing 11 for the match against KKR: KL Rahul (c & wk), Quinton de Kock, Devdutt Padikkal, Nicholas Pooran, Marcus Stoinis, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Ravi Bishnoi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mohsin Khan, and Mayank Yadav. Final lineup depends on team management decision based on pitch conditions.
What is KKR's predicted playing 11 vs LSG today?+
KKR's likely playing 11 for the match against LSG: Sunil Narine, Phil Salt, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Mitchell Starc, Varun Chakaravarthy, Harshit Rana, and Anukul Roy. Final composition will be confirmed at toss.
What is the toss prediction for LSG vs KKR today?+
At Ekana Stadium under lights, the team winning the toss usually opts to bowl first to take advantage of dew arriving later in the evening. Our toss prediction model suggests the team chasing has a 55% win rate at Ekana in IPL 2025-26 evening matches. Captains are likely to elect bowling first.
Who are the top dream11 picks for LSG vs KKR today?+
Top Dream11 picks for LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 match:
- Captain: Sunil Narine (all-rounder, top of order, key wicket-taker)
- Vice-Captain: Nicholas Pooran (in form, dominant middle-order batter)
Other strong picks: KL Rahul, Andre Russell, Phil Salt, Varun Chakaravarthy, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Mayank Yadav, and Rinku Singh.
What is the weather forecast for Lucknow today?+
Lucknow weather for the LSG vs KKR match: Temperature around 36-38°C in the evening, humidity around 50-60%, with light breeze. No rain forecast. Light dew is expected after 9 PM IST which will mildly favour the team chasing in the second innings.
What is the expected first innings score at Ekana today?+
The expected first innings score for LSG vs KKR at Ekana today is in the range of 160-180. The pitch slows down considerably under lights, making 175+ a competitive total. Anything above 190 would be above-par for this venue.
How can I watch LSG vs KKR live in India?+
You can watch LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 live on JioHotstar (formerly Disney+ Hotstar) for streaming and on Star Sports Network on television. Live commentary is available in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Kannada, Bengali, and Malayalam.
What are the live betting odds for LSG vs KKR today?+
Pre-match betting odds (subject to change with team news and toss):
- KKR around 1.80 to win
- LSG around 2.05 to win
Live in-play odds will fluctuate ball-by-ball based on match situation. For the latest live odds, log in to your Winkaro247 ID.
Who are the top run-scorers in LSG vs KKR history?+
Top run-scorers in LSG vs KKR history:
- KL Rahul — 242+ runs
- Nicholas Pooran — 198 runs
- Phil Salt — 165 runs
- Venkatesh Iyer — 140 runs
- Marcus Stoinis — 118 runs
All stats updated as of IPL 2025 season.
Who are the top wicket-takers in LSG vs KKR history?+
Top wicket-takers in LSG vs KKR meetings:
- Sunil Narine — 11 wickets
- Varun Chakaravarthy — 9 wickets
- Ravi Bishnoi — 8 wickets
- Andre Russell — 7 wickets
- Mitchell Starc — 6 wickets
What are the fancy market predictions for LSG vs KKR today?+
Fancy/session market predictions for LSG vs KKR at Ekana:
- Powerplay runs likely 50-60 for the team batting first
- First 10-over total around 80-95
- Total fours in match around 30-38
- Total sixes around 13-18
These are estimates based on Ekana averages and recent team form.
Has KKR won the IPL trophy more times than LSG?+
Yes. KKR have won the IPL title 3 times (2012, 2014, 2024), while LSG, who joined the league in 2022, are still searching for their first IPL trophy. KKR are the third most successful IPL franchise after CSK/Mumbai Indians.
Where can I get live betting odds for LSG vs KKR?+
You can get live in-play betting odds, fancy markets, session bets, and live cricket markets for the LSG vs KKR match through your Winkaro247 ID. Log in to access the sharpest live cricket odds with ball-by-ball updates throughout the match. Don't have an ID yet? Get your IPL betting ID on WhatsApp in 2 minutes.
What time is the toss for LSG vs KKR today?+
The toss for the LSG vs KKR IPL 2026 match takes place at 7:00 PM IST, exactly 30 minutes before the first ball at 7:30 PM IST.
Will Andre Russell play today's LSG vs KKR match?+
Yes. Andre Russell is fit and is expected to play as KKR's all-rounder in today's IPL 2026 match against Lucknow Super Giants. Russell remains one of the most explosive lower-middle-order hitters and a key 2-3 over death bowler.
Who is the impact player for LSG and KKR today?+
LSG likely impact player: Yash Thakur or Mohit Rathee depending on whether LSG want extra batting or bowling. KKR likely impact player: Vaibhav Arora or Anukul Roy depending on match situation. The impact player is announced after toss.
Where does LSG vs KKR rank in IPL 2026 fixtures?+
LSG vs KKR is among the most-watched fixtures of Tata IPL 2026. Both teams have strong fan bases and have produced several thrilling matches in recent years. Today's match is a critical league-stage encounter for both teams' playoff hopes.
How fast is Mayank Yadav's bowling?+
Mayank Yadav is one of the fastest bowlers in the IPL, regularly clocking 150+ kph with his fastest delivery recorded at 156.7 kph. His express pace combined with bounce makes him a key threat against KKR's batting line-up at Ekana tonight.
Will there be dew at Ekana tonight?+
Yes, light to moderate dew is expected from 9 PM IST onwards at Ekana Stadium for the LSG vs KKR match. Dew makes it harder for spinners to grip the ball, which means the team chasing in the second innings has a slight advantage tonight. Captains winning the toss are expected to bowl first.
What are the IPL 2026 standings for LSG and KKR?+
Both Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders are in the playoff race for IPL 2026. Today's LSG vs KKR match is critical for both teams' net run rate and points tally. Updated standings are available on iplt20.com and ESPNCricinfo.
How fast can I get an IPL betting ID for LSG vs KKR match?+
Your Winkaro247 IPL betting ID can be activated in under 2 minutes. Just message us on WhatsApp, share your username and opening balance (minimum ₹100), complete the deposit via UPI, and your IPL ID is ready before the toss. We have full agent staffing for every IPL match day. Click here to get your IPL ID now.
What are the powerplay run predictions for LSG vs KKR?+
Based on Ekana averages and current openers' form, the predicted powerplay (first 6 overs) runs for LSG vs KKR today is in the range of 50-60 runs. KKR's openers (Narine and Salt) tend to be more aggressive in the powerplay than LSG's, due to Narine's hitting in the first 6 overs.
Is the Ekana pitch good for batting?+
The Ekana pitch is moderately batting-friendly with the surface favouring batsmen who play spin well. Pure power-hitters can struggle in the middle overs as the ball grips the surface. Average first innings score is 160-170, which is below the IPL average. Anchors who can rotate strike are particularly effective at Ekana.