NEW DELHI: Delhi Capitals (DC) kept their hopes alive for the Indian Premier League playoffs with a crucial 19-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday.
With this win, DC concluded their league campaign with 14 points. However, their playoff prospects hinge on other match results, as Sunrisers Hyderabad, Chennai Super Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are also vying for the remaining two playoff spots.
Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals have already secured their berths in the playoffs.
Tristan Stubbs played a pivotal role in Delhi's victory, propelling them to a formidable total of 208-4. The South African power-hitter showcased his prowess in the death overs, smashing an unbeaten 57 off just 25 balls. Opening batter Abishek Porel provided early momentum with a brisk knock of 58 off 33 balls.
In the bowling department, Ishant Sharma's triple strike in the powerplay left LSG reeling at 44-4. However, Nicholas Pooran's explosive innings of 61 off 27 balls, followed by a whirlwind half-century from No. 8 batter Arshad Khan (58 not out off 25 balls), propelled Lucknow to a respectable total of 189-9. Despite their late surge, DC managed to emerge victorious, keeping their playoff dreams alive.
Left-arm bowler Kuldeep Yadav, who has performed outstandingly well for DC this season, termed Delhi wicket good for the spinners.
"It was a good wicket to bowl [on], especially for the spinners. I was getting a little bit of grip, so I was looking to spin the ball. The length matters [too], and the wicket was slower. The revs are very important. When the wicket is slow, you have to be perfect regardless of the length. The pace is very important," Kuldeep said after the match.
"That's how cricket is - we just came here to win, and we won! Obviously, NRR matters a lot, and let's see which teams go through," Kuldeep added.
