Delhi Capitals pacer Mukesh Kumar bags Player of the Match with a fiery 4-wicket haul; says key dismissal of Mitchell Marsh helped shift momentum in DC’s favour.
Lucknow, April 23: Delhi Capitals speedster Mukesh Kumar delivered a match-winning spell of 4/33 to crush Lucknow Super Giants’ batting lineup and seal a comfortable 8-wicket victory for DC at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. His disciplined bowling in the middle and death overs earned him the Player of the Match award.
Reflecting on his spell, Mukesh highlighted the dismissal of Mitchell Marsh—who was building dangerous momentum—as the “crucial breakthrough” that helped DC regain control.
“It feels really good. I really enjoyed bowling on this wicket. Mitchell Marsh’s wicket was really crucial, and picking it up at that point helped us shift the momentum,” Mukesh said post-match.
🧠 Strategy & Execution
Mukesh credited his success to team communication and quick adaptability.
“Before bowling my second over, I had a chat with the other bowlers. They told me it was stopping a bit, so I tried to mix it up. I always speak to the skipper about my plans—whether I’m bowling slower balls or yorkers,” he added.
The 30-year-old seamer also expressed satisfaction about hitting top form midway through the tournament, saying,
“I’ve been trying to bowl like this since the start of the season. I hope I can carry this form into upcoming games.”
🎯 Match Summary
After restricting LSG to 159/6, thanks in large part to Mukesh’s four wickets—including Marsh (45), Abdul Samad (2), Ayush Badoni (36), and Rishabh Pant (0)—Delhi Capitals made light work of the chase.
KL Rahul (57) and Abhishek Porel (51)* built a solid 69-run stand for the second wicket. Rahul, who achieved the milestone of 5000 IPL runs, finished the match with a towering six to complete the chase in just 17.5 overs.
🏏 Key Performers:
- Mukesh Kumar: 4/33 (4 overs)
- KL Rahul: 57* (record 5000+ IPL runs)
- Abhishek Porel: 51 (36 balls)
- Mitchell Marsh (LSG): 45
- Aiden Markram (LSG): 52
With this win, Delhi Capitals move level on points with Gujarat Titans (12), keeping their playoff hopes alive. Mukesh Kumar’s form and KL Rahul’s consistency are proving to be DC’s biggest assets in IPL 2025’s second half.