Jaipur: Ashutosh Sharma praised the match-winning opening partnership between KL Rahul and Pathum Nissanka after Delhi Capitals pulled off a stunning seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026.
“Powerplay sets the tone”
Speaking after the game, Ashutosh underlined how crucial a strong start has become in modern T20 cricket.
“In T20 cricket nowadays, a lot depends on the opening partnership and the powerplay. Our openers played really well, and because of that, we were in the game throughout,” he said.
The 110-run opening stand between Rahul and Nissanka laid the perfect platform for what turned out to be Delhi’s highest successful chase in IPL history.
Big chase, calm execution
Chasing a daunting 226, DC showed composure throughout the innings.
Rahul anchored the chase with a fluent 75 off 40 balls, while Nissanka’s aggressive 62 off 33 deliveries provided early momentum.
Ashutosh emphasised that even big totals are no longer safe in T20 cricket.
“A score of 230 is always big, but in this format, games often go till the end. You can’t assume anything early,” he noted.
Finisher’s role embraced
Ashutosh, who remained unbeaten on 25 off 15 balls, played a key role in closing out the chase alongside Tristan Stubbs.
Reflecting on his contribution, he said staying unbeaten in a winning cause is always special.
“Whenever the team wins and you are not out, it feels like the best innings,” he said.
He also spoke about his role as a finisher, highlighting the trust placed in him by the team management.
“It is my role, and I enjoy it. As long as I am at the crease, I believe I can win games for my team,” he added.
RR post massive total
Earlier, Riyan Parag led Rajasthan Royals with a brilliant 90 off 50 balls, his first major score of the season.
He was well supported by Dhruv Jurel (42), as the duo rebuilt after early wickets.
A late onslaught from Donovan Ferreira, who smashed 47* off just 14 balls, propelled RR to a formidable 225/6.
With the ball, Mitchell Starc picked up 3/40, including the key wicket of Parag.
Record chase and standings impact
Delhi Capitals completed the chase with five balls to spare, marking:
- Their highest successful chase in IPL history
- One of the biggest chases against Rajasthan Royals
- A strong comeback after a recent batting collapse
The win lifts DC to sixth place with four victories this season, while RR remain in the top four with six wins from 10 matches.
Statement win for DC
This performance highlighted the evolving nature of T20 cricket, where even totals above 220 are no longer safe.
For Delhi Capitals, the victory was not just about two points—it was a statement of intent, built on a solid opening partnership and finished with composure.