In a thrilling Indian Premier League (IPL) opener, Punjab Kings emerged victorious over Delhi Capitals by four wickets, thanks to a counterattacking half-century from English all-rounder Sam Curran.
Chasing a target of 175, Punjab Kings got off to a solid start with Shikhar Dhawan and Prabhsimran Singh contributing valuable runs. However, the dismissal of Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow put Punjab under pressure. Curran then stepped up with a blistering 47-ball 63, ably supported by Liam Livingstone’s unbeaten 38 off 21 balls.
Earlier, Delhi Capitals had struggled to post a formidable total, with Abhishek Porel’s unbeaten 32 off 10 balls proving to be the highest individual score. David Warner and Mitchell Marsh had provided a strong start, but their dismissals and the loss of wickets at regular intervals prevented Delhi from building a substantial partnership.
Punjab Kings’ bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh and Kagiso Rabada, kept the Delhi batsmen in check, with Harshal Patel claiming the crucial wicket of Warner.
Rishabh Pant, making his comeback after a horrific car accident, received a warm welcome from the crowd but failed to make a significant impact, scoring only 18 runs.
Punjab Kings’ victory was a testament to their resilience and the brilliance of Curran, who played a match-winning knock under pressure.
