The Delhi Capitals (DC) continued their impressive resurgence in the IPL with a thrilling 10-run victory over Mumbai Indians on Saturday, April 27. This marks their second consecutive win, propelling them from the bottom of the table to a much more comfortable fifth place. Rishabh Pant-led DC dominated the first innings, setting a new franchise record with a mammoth total of 257 for 4. This batting performance is a testament to their recent form turnaround. Despite Mumbai Indians' valiant effort, spearheaded by Tilak Varma's quickfire 63 runs off just 32 balls, the Delhi Capitals bowlers held their nerve. They restricted MI to 247/9, securing a crucial victory.
Pant raises concerns about Impact Player Rule
Following the win, however, Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant expressed reservations about the much-talked about ‘impact player’ rule. The specifics of his concerns were not mentioned, but it suggests a potential need for adjustments to the rule as the season progresses.
“We were pretty happy with 250 on the board but with impact sub, it is getting difficult each and every day,” Pant said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
To restrict the MI batsmen from playing big shots, Pant employed an aggressive field placement, standing closer to the wicket for medium pacers Mukesh Kumar and Rasikh Dar.
“Definitely, I can keep up to the stumps but the bowler also should be confident…. with batters like Tim David walking down, and today it worked,” he added.
Pant showered praise on Jake Fraser-McGurk, who continued his IPL dominance with another jaw-dropping knock – an 82-run blitz off just 24 balls, studded with 11 boundaries and 6 sixes.
“He has been amazing since the first day and this is what you want from a younger player, he’s getting better and better with each game. The chances are increasing day by day, but we are taking it one game at a time,” Pant concluded.
This win propelled Delhi Capitals to the fifth spot in the standings, while Mumbai remained near the bottom. DC will next face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 29 while MI will take on Lucknow Super Giants on April 30.
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