Lucknow, April 22 (ANI): KL Rahul’s explosive 57* and Abhishek Porel’s composed half-century led Delhi Capitals (DC) to an easy 8-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
After a solid bowling performance, Rahul and Porel’s partnership made light work of the 160-run target, bringing DC level on points with Gujarat Titans on 12 points each. Rahul, who spent three seasons with Lucknow, delivered a record-breaking 57*, marking his 40th IPL half-century and becoming the fastest player to reach 5000 IPL runs.
DC’s chase began with Karun Nair and Abhishek Porel taking charge, with the duo attacking Shardul Thakur from the outset. Nair hit back-to-back boundaries and Porel followed with a four to take 15 runs from the opening over. Nair’s form continued as he hit a towering six, but he was dismissed after getting out to a sharp spin from Rishabh Pant‘s ploy.
Rahul and Porel then combined for a 69-run partnership, with Porel taking on Ravi Bishnoi for an 83-meter six and completing his first fifty of the season. Rahul also impressed with a powerful 86-meter six. Porel was dismissed for 51 (36), but Rahul and Axar Patel saw DC to victory, with Rahul finishing with another stylish six to seal the win.
Earlier, LSG’s Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh had built a solid start, putting together 51 runs in the first six overs. Markram top-scored for LSG with 52 from 33 balls. However, wickets fell regularly, and Mukesh Kumar played a key role in restricting LSG by dismissing Mitchell Marsh (45), Abdul Samad (2), and Nicholas Pooran (9).
Despite a late surge from Ayush Badoni (36 off 21 balls), LSG was restricted to 159/9, with David Miller remaining not out on 14.
About The Author
