In a sensational opening match of IPL 2025, the Delhi Capitals (DC) triumphed over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) with a stunning one-wicket victory in Visakhapatnam on March 24, 2025. The match saw Ashutosh Sharma deliver a remarkable unbeaten innings of 66 runs, anchored by five fours and five sixes, clinching victory three balls to spare.
The thrilling victory was not without its challenges, as Delhi found themselves reeling at 7 for 3 in their chase of a hefty target of 210 runs. After the early wickets fell, including that of Faf du Plessis who managed just 29 runs in his DC debut, the team appeared to be on the brink of disaster at 113 for 6. However, the emergence of Ashutosh, playing as an impact substitute, proved crucial.
In a moment of high tension, Ashutosh was pivotal during a crucial partnership of 55 runs off just 22 balls with fellow debutant Vipraj Nigam, who scored 39 runs off 15 deliveries. Their collaboration was a lifeline for the Capitals, keeping their chase alive as they navigated the pressure of needing 97 runs from the final 7.3 overs.
Lucknow Super Giants initially posted a competitive total of 209 runs thanks to two powerful half-centuries from Nicholas Pooran, who scored 75 off 30 balls, and Mitchell Marsh, who added 72 runs off 36 balls. Together, they dominated the bowlers, accumulating 147 runs from just 66 deliveries. The duo's efforts came after the team had faced a sudden collapse as their innings concluded with 6 wickets lost in the last 7 overs, only scoring 49 runs.
Delhi’s response to LSG's total began shakily, losing several wickets early in the innings. The new captain Axar Patel, despite contributing 22 runs, found it challenging to lead the team amid the dramatic fall of wickets. Support came briefly from Tristan Stubbs, who added 34 runs, but it was ultimately Ashutosh’s daring determination that saw the team through.
As the final over approached, the tension was palpable. With only six runs required, it all hinged on Ashutosh’s ability to perform under pressure. In a nail-biting finish, he struck a memorable six off the bowling of Shahbaz Ahmed, securing the victory for Delhi and sending the stadium into jubilation.
After the match, Sanjiv Goenka, owner of the Lucknow Super Giants, spoke of the mixed feelings following such a close contest. “Lots of positives that I take away from this game in batting and in bowling. The way we had the powerplay in both innings was brilliant. These things happen,” he said, expressing optimism despite the difficult start to the season.
Delhi’s bowling unit, led by Kuldeep Yadav with figures of 2 wickets for just 20 runs, and Mitchell Starc, who took 3 for 42, displayed solid resilience as they contained the LSG batters towards the end of their innings, despite initial struggles. This defensive effort coupled with the remarkable batting performance was pivotal in achieving the victory.
The win not only marks a strong start for Ashutosh, who made a name for himself as a finisher with the Punjab Kings last season but also sets an optimistic tone for the Delhi Capitals as they continue their campaign in this year’s IPL. As standout performances are scrutinized, questions emerge about the consistency of young talents in high-stakes situations and the dynamics within the squads led by the new captains.
Next, the Lucknow Super Giants are set to face the Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 27, 2025, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, where they hope to bounce back and build on the lessons learned from this closely fought encounter.
With both teams showcasing such intense competition, IPL 2025 promises to be an exhilarating season full of surprises and unforgettable moments, as fans eagerly await each game with the hope of witnessing more thrilling finishes like this one.
