In a night to remember for the young Bengal cricketer, Abishek Porel, who has been an active player for Delhi Capitals for the past two years, finally scored his first half-century of the IPL 2024 season against Rajasthan Royals.
The moment came when Avesh Khan bowled a shortish delivery, and Porel pulled it over mid-wicket for a massive six, reaching his maiden IPL fifty. The Delhi crowd and management erupted in applause, acknowledging the youngster’s effort and intent. Porel raised his bat, savoring the moment he had worked so hard for.
First FIFTY of the season for Abishek Porel ✨
He's looked promising so far, can he carry on and make this knock a big one ❓
Follow the Match ▶️ https://t.co/nQ6EWQGoYN#TATAIPL | #DCvRR pic.twitter.com/HNtSTExHOF
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 7, 2024
Porel’s innings gained further significance as he was the primary wicket-keeper for Delhi Capitals when their regular captain, Rishabh Pant, was ruled out of the IPL due to a road accident.
The 22-year-old showcased his impressive range and intent throughout his innings, scoring 65 runs off just 36 balls, including seven boundaries and three massive sixes.
However, the fairy tale innings came to an end when Ravichandran Ashwin trapped him with a well-flighted off-spinner. Porel backed away, attempting a lofted inside-out drive, but ended up slicing the ball straight to Sandeep Sharma at backward point, who took a simple catch.
Despite the dismissal, Porel’s innings of 65 runs (36 balls, 4×7, 6×3) will be remembered as a milestone moment for the young cricketer, who has finally announced himself on the big stage of the IPL.
