Bengaluru – In a thrilling encounter at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Delhi Capitals clinched a decisive six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, thanks to a stellar unbeaten 93 from their captain, KL Rahul. Chasing a competitive total of 164, Rahul’s innings was a masterclass in composure and power, thrilling fans with its elegance and effectiveness.
The atmosphere was electric as Rahul, a local favorite, anchored the innings after an early collapse saw Delhi struggling at 30 for 3. His calm approach was pivotal, guiding the team to victory with 13 balls to spare. Rahul’s knock included nine fours and five sixes, the last of which was a majestic six off Yash Dayal that sealed the win and triggered a thunderous chest-thump celebration from the Bengaluru crowd.
Delhi’s innings started shakily with Faf du Plessis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Abhishek Porel all falling cheaply. However, Rahul, along with crucial partnerships with Axar Patel (15) and Tristan Stubbs (38* off 23), steadied the ship. The unbroken sixth-wicket stand of 111 runs between Rahul and Stubbs not only showcased their skill but also their resilience under pressure.
Earlier, Royal Challengers Bengaluru had set a target of 163 for 7 after choosing to bat first. Phil Salt provided an explosive start, smashing 37 off just 17 balls, including a merciless 30-run over against Mitchell Starc. However, Salt’s run-out ignited a collapse, and despite a valiant 37 not out from Tim David, RCB couldn’t build on their promising start.
The turning point came with the introduction of Delhi’s spinners. Vipraj Nigam was particularly effective, claiming the crucial wickets of Virat Kohli (22) and Krunal Pandya, finishing with figures of 2 for 18. Kuldeep Yadav complemented this with his crafty spin, dismissing Rajat Patidar (25) and Jitesh Sharma (3), ensuring RCB’s middle order failed to capitalize.
This victory extends Delhi Capitals’ winning streak to four matches, consolidating their position in second place behind Gujarat Titans on the points table. As the IPL 2025 season progresses, Rahul’s leadership and batting prowess continue to be instrumental in Delhi’s quest for glory.