New Delhi, 18 May (H.S.): In an important IPL 2026 encounter on Sunday, Delhi Capitals defeated Rajasthan Royals by five wickets to keep their playoff ambitions intact. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi chased down a target of 194 in 19.2 overs for the loss of five wickets.

After losing the toss, Rajasthan Royals batted first and posted 193 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings began well with strong middle-order contributions, but a late flurry of wickets prevented the side from reaching the 200-mark.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel top-scored for Rajasthan with 53, while captain Riyan Parag struck a rapid fifty — 51 off 26 balls. Young Vaibhav Suryawanshi also impressed with an aggressive 46 off 21 deliveries. At one stage Rajasthan looked well placed, but their batting faltered in the closing overs.

Mitchell Starc was the pick of the Delhi bowlers, taking four wickets and stifling Rajasthan’s scoring. Lungi Ngidi and Madhav Tiwary claimed two wickets each to provide crucial breakthroughs.

In the chase, Delhi produced a composed batting effort, building steady partnerships and maintaining control under pressure before sealing victory in the penultimate over.

The defeat was Rajasthan’s third in succession, further complicating their path to the playoffs. The win strengthens Delhi’s case as the tournament reaches its business end.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar