In a thrilling season opener for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), the Delhi Capitals (DC) clinched victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by just one wicket in Visakhapatnam on March 24, 2025. Chasing a daunting target of 210, DC faced an early collapse but was ultimately saved by a stunning performance from Ashutosh Sharma, who scored 66 runs from only 31 balls, leading his team to make 211 runs for the loss of nine wickets in just 19.3 overs.
At the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, under the pressure of chasing a sizeable total, Delhi found themselves in a disastrous position at 7 for 3 before Ashutosh initiated a heroic comeback. As wickets continued to tumble, he maintained his composure and struck a series of impressive strokes, mixing five sixes and as many fours in his innings.
The match was filled with drama and unexpected twists. LSG had initially set a total of 209 runs, with Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh both delivering powerful performances. Pooran amassed a remarkable 75 runs off just 30 balls, while Marsh added 72 runs, showcasing a dominant display of batting that briefly had LSG poised for an even larger score.
However, the Delhi bowlers made significant inroads, particularly through Kuldeep Yadav, who claimed two crucial wickets for only 20 runs in four overs. Mitchell Starc's contribution was notable as well, picking up three wickets for 42 runs, helping to stymie LSG's momentum as they lost wickets in quick succession at a critical point in the match.
Both teams knew that every run counted, and pressure mounted as Ashutosh and debutant Vipraj Nigam partnered to hit 55 runs for the seventh wicket. Nigam scored 39 runs off just 15 deliveries, playing a key role in swinging the match in favor of Delhi, especially after both batsmen were sent back to the pavilion during a pivotal moment in the game.
Despite the twists and turns, the climax of the match came in the final over. With just six runs needed and only one wicket remaining, LSG captain Rishabh Pant missed a crucial stumping opportunity on the first ball, a moment that would haunt his team. Ultimately, Ashutosh managed to score the winning runs, sealing a memorable start to the season for Delhi Capitals.
The match was dominated by high-scoring potential, especially given the pitch's recent performances. In IPL 2024, previous matches played at the venue had consistently showcased a propensity for high scores, with Delhi and KKR notably scoring over 270 runs. The anticipation led up to this IPL 2025 match, as both teams showcased their big-hitting capabilities.
Though Delhi Capitals’ batting lineup encountered early challenges, Ashutosh’s remarkable 66 runs delivered a sensational turnaround, which DC fans will cherish as their team begins its journey in IPL 2025. The pivotal partnerships and explosive batting highlighted the promising battle between two North Indian teams.
Looking ahead, both teams will be optimistic following this encounter. Delhi will aim to build on this exhilarating victory, asserting themselves early in the tournament, while Lucknow will want to regroup and bounce back from a heart-wrenching defeat. The IPL 2025 future matches await, with the promise of continued excitement and action on the field.
As the season progresses, the performances of players like Ashutosh and Kuldeep, along with returns from players like Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul, will critically shape the tournament’s unfolding narrative.
