The Delhi Capitals secured their first win of the IPL 2024 season with a thrilling 20-run victory over the Chennai Super Kings in Visakhapatnam. While skipper Rishabh Pant, returning from a long injury layoff, led by example with a well-made fifty (51 off 32 balls), he was quick to credit his bowlers for their match-winning performance.
Clinical Bowling Seals the Deal
“Bowlers have been clinical today,” Pant acknowledged during the post-match presentation ceremony. This statement reflects the significant contribution of the DC bowling attack in securing the win. Khaleel Ahmed emerged as the Player of the Match with impressive bowling figures of 2-21.
Mukesh Kumar also played a crucial role, taking three wickets and effectively restricting the dangerous duo of MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja in the penultimate over. These bowling performances were a stark contrast to the struggles Delhi faced in their previous matches, highlighting the importance of their disciplined bowling display in this victory.
Shaw Makes Comeback, Pant Impressed
The match also marked the return of young opener Prithvi Shaw to the Delhi Capitals playing XI. Shaw, making his first appearance of the season, displayed his explosive potential with a brisk 43 off just 27 balls, providing his team with a strong start.
Pant expressed his satisfaction with Shaw’s performance, stating, “He’s been working hard from the last two weeks. We thought it was time to give him a chance and he flourished.” This suggests that Shaw may have cemented his place in the starting lineup, but Pant also hinted at potential flexibility based on future matchups.
Emotional Return for Pant
The IPL 2024 holds special significance for Rishabh Pant, marking his comeback to professional cricket after a nearly year-and-a-half absence due to a car accident in December 2022. Reflecting on his return, Pant stated, “As a cricketer I’ve to give my 100 percent. Took some time initially as I haven’t played much cricket in the last 1.5 years. This is something I’ve depended my life on. Always had the self-belief that whatever happens, it’s important to come back to the ground.”
His determination and resilience were evident both in his leadership and his batting performance, showcasing his dedication to returning to peak form
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