Delhi Capitals (DC) delivered a resounding response to their previous loss by cruising past Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) with a commanding 8-wicket win in Match 40 of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Led by an all-round performance from Mukesh Kumar with the ball and a clinical chase by KL Rahul and Abishek Porel, DC strengthened their hold on the second spot in the points table.
DC Restrict LSG to 159/6 with Disciplined Bowling
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, DC captain Axar Patel saw his side get off to a shaky start as LSG’s openers Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh laid a solid foundation. The pair added 51 runs inside the powerplay, with Markram scoring freely to notch up his fifth 50+ score in six innings.
However, momentum shifted after Markram was dismissed for 52(33) by Dushmantha Chameera. LSG lost their way soon after. Nicholas Pooran hit two crisp boundaries but was bowled by Mitchell Starc for the second time this season. The real damage came in the 14th over when Mukesh Kumar removed both Abdul Samad and Marsh (45 off 36), turning the game in DC’s favor.
A late cameo by Ayush Badoni (36 off 21) provided a much-needed boost to LSG’s total. Badoni was dropped on 3 by Tristan Stubbs and made DC pay for the lapse. Mukesh, however, returned to pick up two more wickets in the final over, finishing with match-winning figures of 4/33.
KL Rahul, Abishek Porel Lead Dominant DC Chase
In reply, DC’s chase began positively. Although Karun Nair was dismissed early for 15(9), Abishek Porel and KL Rahul kept the scoreboard ticking. The duo guided DC to 54/1 at the end of the powerplay.
Despite some disciplined bowling by LSG in the middle overs, Porel remained composed and brought up his maiden half-century of the season off 33 balls. Rahul, batting against his former team, provided calm leadership from the other end.
With the required rate never spiraling out of control, DC’s equation came down to just 58 needed off 53 balls. Porel eventually fell to Markram after a well-made 51(36), but the finish was smooth sailing for the visitors.
Axar, Rahul Finish in Style
Skipper Axar Patel joined Rahul and wasted no time asserting his authority. He smashed four sixes in his unbeaten 34 off just 20 balls. KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 57 off 42 deliveries and fittingly sealed the game with a six, as DC chased down the target in just 17.5 overs with 13 balls to spare.
Key Performers
- Mukesh Kumar: 4/33 – Match-winning spell that broke LSG’s momentum.
- KL Rahul: 57* (42) – Anchored the chase with maturity and flair.
- Abishek Porel: 51 (36) – First fifty of the season at a crucial juncture.
- Axar Patel: 34* (20) – Finishing touches with four big sixes.
- Aiden Markram: 52 (33) and 2 wickets – All-round contribution despite defeat.
Points Table Impact
With this win, Delhi Capitals remain in second place and inch closer to confirming a playoff spot. LSG, meanwhile, will need to reassess their middle-order consistency and death bowling as the league stage nears its final leg.
Category: IPL 2025, Match Reports, Cricket Highlights, Team Performances
Tags: IPL 2025, DC vs LSG, Mukesh Kumar, KL Rahul, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel, Aiden Markram, Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals, IPL Match 40
