The Rajasthan Royals edged past the Delhi Capitals by a narrow margin of 12 runs in a pulsating Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur. A valiant unbeaten knock of 84 runs from Riyan Parag and a disciplined final over by Avesh Khan proved to be the difference-makers for the Royals.
Early Setbacks for Rajasthan
The Royals’ batting innings got off to a shaky start on a sluggish Jaipur pitch. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson departed cheaply, followed by the prized wicket of Jos Buttler, leaving Rajasthan in a precarious position at 36/3.
Ashwin and Parag Provide Stability
With their top order dismantled, the Royals banked on a tactical promotion for Ravichandran Ashwin at number 5. Ashwin played a composed knock, utilizing sweeps and pulls to counter the Delhi spinners. He forged a crucial 54-run partnership with Parag, who began cautiously before finding his rhythm.
Parag Takes the Centre Stage
Parag blossomed as the innings progressed, unleashing an array of boundaries. He particularly targeted Khaleel Ahmed’s final over, collecting three fours. He raced to his fifty off Mukesh Kumar’s bowling and saved his best for last. Anrich Nortje’s express pace was met with audacious hitting from Parag in the final over. While a couple of edges flew over third man for boundaries, Parag also displayed power by pulling two of Nortje’s short deliveries for sixes. His unbeaten knock of 84, scored at a blistering strike rate of over 178, propelled Rajasthan to a competitive total of 185/5.
Delhi’s Chase Falters Despite Early Promise
A strong start for the Delhi Capitals chase seemed imminent with Mitchell Marsh playing some aggressive strokes. However, his dismissal, followed by quick wickets for Ricky Bhui and Lalit Yadav, put them in a spot of bother.
Warner and Pant Offer Hope
The experienced duo of David Warner and Rishabh Pant steadied the Delhi innings with a cautious but steady 67-run partnership. While their partnership didn’t significantly reduce the required run rate, it provided a platform for a late assault. Unfortunately, both fell in quick succession, leaving the Delhi chase hanging by a thread.
Late Fightback Falls Short
Despite losing key wickets, the Delhi Capitals didn’t surrender without a fight. Tristan Stubbs, benefiting from a dropped catch by Trent Boult, played a valiant knock of 44 runs. He targeted Ashwin’s bowling and hit some powerful blows against Sandeep Sharma. Axar Patel chipped in with a handy cameo, and the equation came down to a manageable 17 runs needed off the final over.
Khan Holds his Nerve in the Final Over
With the match on a knife’s edge, Avesh Khan delivered a superb final over for the Rajasthan Royals. He executed his plans flawlessly, conceding no boundaries and restricting Delhi to just 11 runs, sealing a thrilling victory for his team.
Looking Ahead
This victory marks Rajasthan Royals’ second consecutive win in IPL 2024, consolidating their position at the top of the table. The Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming clash against the Chennai Super Kings on March 31st. The Rajasthan Royals will play their first away game of the season against the Mumbai Indians the following day.
