In a stunning performance, Aussie fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, alongside teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar, dismantled the Delhi Capitals for a mere 75 runs, leading the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a resounding nine-wicket victory in the Indian Premier League. Just two days prior, Delhi had scored a formidable 264 runs against the Punjab Kings, making this collapse all the more shocking and marking their third lowest total in IPL history.
Hazlewood showcased his brilliance with figures of 4 wickets for just 12 runs, while Kumar supported with 3 for 5. Reflecting on the bewildering defeat, Delhi’s captain Axar Patel expressed disbelief, stating, “In cricket… you cannot take it easy for even one day.”
RCB, seeking redemption after their previous home defeat to Delhi, chased down the modest target rapidly, finishing at 1 for 77 in just 6.3 overs. Virat Kohli, the franchise’s star player, became the first cricketer to surpass 9000 runs in the IPL, contributing an unbeaten 23 runs. He sealed the victory with two consecutive sixes off bowler Thangarasu Natarajan. Devdutt Padikkal provided further acceleration, scoring 34 not out from just 13 balls, which included two sixes and two fours.
Bengaluru’s captain Rajat Patidar expressed surprise at the outcome, noting that his team had adapted well to the conditions. Hazlewood, who faced setbacks during Australia’s home summer, spoke about the difficulties for batsmen when the ball is in pristine condition. He also highlighted the team’s ability to quickly gauge conditions and execute their strategies effectively.
Delhi capitulated dramatically, finding themselves at 6 for 8 within just 23 balls, with only Abishek Porel managing to reach a score of 30, narrowly helping Delhi exceed their previous lowest IPL total of 66 from 2017. Kumar made a significant impact right from the start by taking a wicket with his very first delivery against debutant Sahil Parakh. Hazlewood followed his lead, striking twice in quick succession, taking out both recent century-maker Lokesh Rahul and Sameer Rizvi.
In a rapid-fire collapse, five Delhi wickets fell for just five runs as Kumar continued the onslaught, dismissing key players including Tristan Stubbs and Patel. Hazlewood rounded off the disintegration of the batting order, ultimately leaving Delhi’s innings in tatters.
With this victory, RCB maintained their strong position, sitting second in the standings with six wins from eight matches, while Delhi languished in seventh.