LSG can win IPL title this season, says assistant coach Lance Klusener

Jaipur: There is no doubt Lucknow Super Giants are one of the most impressive teams this season. With four wins in seven matches so far, LSG are occupying the fifth position in the points table.

After finishing seventh last year, LSG, under new captain Rishabh Pant, certainly looks like a dangerous side which can challenge the best in the business.

Assistant coach Lance Klusener believes the team has potential to win the trophy this season.

"We are certainly capable of winning the title this time. We did well last season but ended up with 14 points and missed the knock-out phase narrowly. This year we can enter the play-offs and if everything clicks together, we can go all the way to emerge champions," said Klusener on the eve of the match against Rajasthan Royals here on Friday.

Former South African ace all-rounder, who joined LSG last season, has been working with head coach Justin Langer to change the fortunes of the Lucknow-based outfit.

"We have to improve our overall performance to reach the top. This team has several match-winners, and we are confident in our abilities. In the last match against CSK, we faltered in the end despite putting up a good fight. We definitely had a chance to win the match but just couldn't cross the finishing line," said 53-year-old Klusener.

Although Rajasthan Royals are struggling in the season, Klusener is expecting a tough match on Saturday.

"They are playing on their home ground, and it gives them a slight edge. I reckon it's a 50-50 match and whoever plays better tomorrow will emerge as a winner," said Klusener.

He said the pace sensation Mayank Yadav is regaining fitness, but other players are fit and available for selection.

Praising leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, Klusener said he is getting better as the tournament progresses.

"I know Ravi comes from this region and has played so many matches on this ground in Jaipur. He is bowling brilliantly and improving with every outing. He is an important member of our bowling spin-bowling unit," added Klusener.