Lucknow’s innings: Rahul misses out, Pooran leads the charge
Lucknow Super Giants, missing captain KL Rahul due to injury, posted 167/7 in their 20 overs. Nicholas Pooran top-scored with 40 off 21 balls, playing a key role in the middle overs. Ayush Badoni (35 off 30) and Marcus Stoinis (32 off 25) added crucial runs, but Delhi’s disciplined bowling attack kept Lucknow in check.
Delhi’s bowlers delivered a solid performance, with Mukesh Kumar (3/25) leading the attack. Veteran pacer Ishant Sharma (2/33) also chipped in, while young debutant Vipraj Nigam (1/24) made an immediate impact.
Vipraj Nigam’s dream debut for Delhi Capitals
20-year-old Vipraj Nigam, a promising leg-spinner from Uttar Pradesh, made his IPL debut in this match. He held his nerve on the big stage, dismissing Deepak Hooda with a well-flighted delivery that turned sharply, earning his first IPL wicket.
Despite his limited experience, Nigam showed impressive control, conceding just 24 runs in his 4 overs. His crucial spell helped restrict Lucknow’s scoring in the middle overs.
Delhi’s chase: Early collapse, Late fireworks
Chasing 168, Delhi Capitals had a disastrous start, losing Prithvi Shaw and David Warner cheaply. Tristan Stubbs (54 off 39)* anchored the innings, but wickets kept falling at regular intervals.
With 24 runs needed off the final two overs, Ashutosh Sharma (28 off 12) stepped up, smashing a six and a four in the last over to seal the win with three balls to spare. His fearless approach made the difference in a tense finish.
Key takeaways:
- Delhi Capitals won by 1 wicket, chasing 168.
- Ashutosh Sharma’s 28 off 12 balls sealed the victory.
- Tristan Stubbs top-scored for Delhi with 54 off 39 balls.*
- Vipraj Nigam impressed on debut, taking 1/24 in 4 overs.
- Mukesh Kumar (3/25) and Ishant Sharma (2/33) led Delhi’s bowling attack.
KL Rahul missed the match due to injury.
