Rishabh Pant had high hopes for a successful comeback, but English all-rounder Sam Curran’s powerful batting led Punjab Kings to a thrilling four-wicket win over Delhi Capitals in the opening match of the IPL season.

Mitchell Marsh and David Warner started well but were not able to continue…

In the beginning, Punjab faced intense pressure from the Australian opening duo of David Warner and Mitchell Marsh. Warner scored 29 runs from 21 balls, while Marsh added 20 runs from 12 deliveries with some impressive boundary shots.

Marsh took advantage of a loose delivery from Sam Curran, hitting the day’s first boundary. He continued his momentum by sending Curran to the boundary again, setting up a strong start for Delhi Capitals.

Warner also showcased his aggressive play, hitting a six off left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh and then finding the boundary through the cover-point area.

Pant admitted that he was nervous, that effect his performance but get huge support

In his comeback match, Delhi Capitals’ captain Rishabh Pant scored 18 runs before being dismissed by Harshal Patel. Although he managed to hit a boundary during his innings, Pant seemed a bit out of touch. Punjab’s Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel both took two wickets each, but Patel faced a tough final over, conceding 25 runs.

Harshal Patel made an impactful start by getting David Warner out in his first over, which brought Rishabh Pant to the crease amidst cheers from the crowd. Pant, who had recovered remarkably from a car accident in December 2022, showed some promise by hitting a couple of boundaries but eventually fell to Harshal Patel in a dismissal that seemed relatively easy.

See Also: Glimpse of classic Rishabh Pant in IPL 2024; fans get emotional

Sam Curran turn the match

Sam Curran was awarded Player of the Match for his impressive half-century performance, which he credited as a great way to kick off the tournament on their new home ground. Expressing his delight, Curran highlighted the challenge of facing world-class Indian bowlers but emphasized their strategy to take the game deep. He also cherished the opportunity to bat alongside his close friend Liam Livingstone, acknowledging their partnership as something special.

The left-handed batsman further commended Curran’s knock of 63 runs and Livingstone’s unbeaten 38 for successfully fulfilling their roles and contributing to the team’s victory.

Despite Rishabh Pant’s return and efforts, Sam Curran’s exceptional performance led Punjab Kings to a thrilling victory over Delhi Capitals in the IPL season opener. Pant may not continue for long but he wins the heart of everyone. With notable contributions from players like Liam Livingstone and Harshal Patel, Punjab emerged victorious in a closely contested match.