Lucknow, 02 April (H.S.):

In the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, the JSW–GMR‑owned Delhi Capitals made a strong start to their campaign by defeating Lucknow Super Giants by six wickets at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday night and securing their first points of the season.

Chasing a target of 142, Delhi Capitals were in trouble at 26 for 4. At that stage, Sameer Rizvi (70 not out off 47 balls) and Tristan Stubbs (39 not out off 32 balls) forged a record 119‑run partnership for the fifth wicket, guiding the team to victory in 17.1 overs. This stand is the highest partnership for the fifth wicket or lower in the franchise’s history.

After the match, Sameer Rizvi said, “When I came in to bat, my intention was to play positively, but after losing four wickets early in the powerplay, the situation became difficult. Stubbs and I decided that we still had time, so it was important to first read the pitch, as the ball was swinging and seaming.”

He added, “Our plan was simple—to get set and then capitalise on the loose deliveries, adapting to the situation. That’s exactly how we built this partnership.”

Paying tribute to the team management, Rizvi said, “The coach and support staff have fully backed me to bat at number‑four and play my natural game. This clarity and freedom give me a lot of confidence on the field.”

On his innings, he explained, “At the start I faced about 12–13 balls without scoring a boundary. Then a loose ball came along, I timed my shot, and after that I felt comfortable and was able to play my usual game.”

He went on, “In domestic cricket I usually bat at number‑four, so I’m comfortable in this role and I try to make the most of every opportunity.”

On sustaining his form, Rizvi said, “I haven’t played many innings in the IPL yet, so my focus now is on performing consistently and contributing to the team.”

Delhi Capitals also delivered a strong bowling performance. Lungi Ngidi took 3/27, T Natarajan 3/29, Kuldeep Yadav 2/31, and captain Axar Patel chipped in with 1/17, restricting Lucknow to 141.

Delhi Capitals will now look to keep the momentum going when they face Mumbai Indians in their first home fixture at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on 4 April 2026.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar