In a thrilling encounter, Rajasthan Royals outlasted a determined Delhi Capitals, securing their second consecutive victory in IPL 2024. Riyan Parag’s brilliant batting performance, coupled with a collective bowling effort, propelled Rajasthan Royals to victory, leaving Delhi Capitals with another disappointing result.
Rajasthan’s Initial Struggle
The pitch conditions at the Sawai Man Singh stadium posed challenges for the batsmen early on. Rajasthan Royals faced early setbacks as they lost key wickets, including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson, within the Powerplay overs. At 36/3, their innings seemed to be in trouble.
Ashwin’s Impact Revives Royals
Rajasthan Royals took a strategic gamble by sending R Ashwin at No. 5 to inject momentum into their innings. Ashwin’s aggressive batting, alongside Riyan Parag’s steady contribution, helped Rajasthan Royals stabilize their innings with a crucial partnership of 54 runs.
Parag’s Explosive Finish
As the innings progressed, Riyan Parag showcased his batting prowess with a flurry of attacking shots. He capitalized on loose deliveries, particularly targeting Khaleel Ahmed and Mukesh Kumar, to accelerate the run rate. Parag’s unbeaten 84, including a sensational 25-run over against Anrich Nortje, propelled Rajasthan Royals to a competitive total.
Delhi Capitals’ Up-and-Down Chase
Delhi Capitals started their chase positively with Mitchell Marsh’s aggressive strokeplay. However, quick wickets of Marsh and Ricky Bhui put them under pressure early on. David Warner and Rishabh Pant steadied the innings with a patient partnership, but their dismissals brought more challenges for Delhi Capitals.
Stubbs’ Late Heroics
Tristan Stubbs provided a late surge for Delhi Capitals with his boundary-filled innings. Despite Ashwin’s early dismissal, Stubbs took charge and launched a counterattack against Rajasthan’s bowlers. However, Avesh Khan’s disciplined final over restricted Delhi Capitals from reaching the target.
Match Summary:
Rajasthan Royals: 185/5 (Riyan Parag 84*)
Delhi Capitals: 173/5 (David Warner 49, Tristan Stubbs 44*; Yuzvendra Chahal 2/19)
Result: Rajasthan Royals won by 12 runs
Also Read: Kohli and Karthik Lead RCB’s Stylish Victory over Punjab