Record-breaking Powerplay sets the stage for a high-scoring IPL match
In a high-octane clash between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, the decision to bowl first by DC captain Rishabh Pant raised eyebrows as Sunrisers went on to set an IPL record Powerplay score of 125, laying the foundation for a massive total.
The Sunrisers were propelled by the explosive duo of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma, who put on a breathtaking 131-run partnership in just over six overs. Head, who had scored a century in the previous match against RCB, continued his fine form with a scintillating 89, while Abhishek matched his tempo with a quickfire 46.
The Capitals’ bowlers, especially Khaleel Ahmed, struggled to contain the rampaging duo as they dispatched the short balls over the boundary with ease. The decision to give the ball to Lalit Yadav in the second over backfired, as Head and Abhishek continued to pile on the runs.
Despite a valiant effort by Kuldeep Yadav, who picked up four wickets but also conceded seven sixes, the Capitals’ bowlers were unable to stem the flow of runs. Axar Patel was the lone bright spot in the bowling department, finishing with the best economy rate.
In the end, Sunrisers fell short of the elusive 300-run mark, thanks to some late wickets by the Capitals’ bowlers. Shahbaz Ahmed’s unbeaten fifty provided some resistance, but it was overshadowed by the fireworks displayed by Head and Abhishek at the start of the innings.
Overall, it was a thrilling contest that showcased the power-hitting abilities of both teams, with Sunrisers ultimately coming out on top with a formidable total on the board. Pant’s decision to bowl first may have been questioned, but it certainly made for an entertaining spectacle for the fans.