Delhi Capitals pulled off a six-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants after a difficult start to the chase. Chasing 142, they were reduced to 26 for 4 but recovered through a strong partnership between Sameer Rizvi and Tristan Stubbs.
Early collapse after Shami’s opening strike
The chase began badly for Delhi. Mohammed Shami removed KL Rahul with the first ball, putting immediate pressure on the batting side. Lucknow’s bowlers maintained control through the powerplay as Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav struck at regular intervals.
Delhi’s top order struggled against the movement on offer. They lost four wickets quickly and were left in trouble at 26 for 4. The pitch assisted the bowlers early on, and the batters found it hard to score freely.
Lucknow looked in control at that stage. The lines were tight and the lengths were consistent. For a short while, it appeared the target might be defended.
Rizvi and Stubbs rebuild and finish the job
The match turned with the partnership between Sameer Rizvi and Tristan Stubbs. They batted with patience at first, focusing on survival before increasing the scoring rate as the innings progressed.
Rizvi, playing as an impact substitute, led the recovery. He stayed calm under pressure and went on to score an unbeaten 64 from 46 balls. Stubbs provided support with 39, keeping the scoreboard moving and handling the pressure well.
Lucknow’s bowlers lost their control in the middle overs. Short deliveries and slower balls were used, but they often sat up for the batters. Rizvi and Stubbs used the gaps and kept the required rate within reach.
The partnership became the key phase of the match and shifted momentum towards Delhi. Once set, both batters kept attacking the loose deliveries and did not allow the fielding side to recover.
With the target close, Rizvi finished the game in the 18th over. Abdul Samad was brought into the attack, but a poor delivery was punished as Rizvi struck a clean shot into the stands to seal the win.
Delhi’s recovery from 26 for 4 proved decisive. Lucknow had the early advantage but failed to break the partnership, and the chase was completed without further trouble.