In a stunning display of power hitting and clinical bowling, the Delhi Capitals surged to a crucial 19-run victory over the Lucknow Super Giants, keeping their slim IPL playoff hopes alive in a riveting encounter on Tuesday. The Capitals’ commanding performance was spearheaded by Abishek Porel and Tristan Stubbs, who delivered sensational fifties to set up an imposing total of 208 for 4.

Explosive batting from Abishek Porel and Tristan Stubbs set the stage for Delhi Capitals

Porel’s blistering 58 off just 33 balls, supported by Shai Hope’s brisk 38, laid a solid foundation as the pair stitched together a formidable 92-run partnership in just 49 balls. Stubbs then took charge with a breathtaking 57 not out off 25 deliveries, including three fours and four towering sixes, forming crucial stands with Rishabh Pant (33) and Axar Patel (14 not out) to propel the Capitals to a daunting total.

Ishant Sharma displays clinical bowling keep Delhi’s playoff hopes alive

The bowlers, led by Ishant Sharma’s early strikes, maintained the pressure on the Super Giants, restricting them to 189 for 9 despite Nicholas Pooran’s explosive 61 and Arshad Khan’s valiant unbeaten 58. Delhi’s triumph not only bolstered their own playoff aspirations but also paved the way for the Rajasthan Royals’ qualification, leaving the Lucknow Super Giants on the brink of elimination.

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With this crucial win, the Capitals moved level on points with Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, with their playoff fate now hanging in the balance, contingent on a series of other results.