Delhi Capitals scripted a sensational three-wicket win over Punjab Kings in a last-over thriller at the HPCA Stadium, chasing down a daunting 211 to keep
their IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive.
Punjab looked firmly in control after posting 210/5. Priyansh Arya provided a blistering start with a 33-ball 56, dominating the Powerplay alongside Prabhsimran Singh. Skipper Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with a composed 59*, while Suryansh Shedge added a late flourish with an unbeaten 21 off just eight balls to push the total past 200.
In response, Delhi stumbled early, losing key wickets including KL Rahul and slipping to 74/4. Punjab's pacers, led by Arshdeep Singh and Yash Thakur, made early inroads and tightened their grip on the contest. However, the game turned dramatically when captain Axar Patel and David Miller launched a counterattack. Their 64-run partnership shifted momentum, with both batters scoring quick-fire half-centuries and putting Punjab's bowlers under immense pressure.
PBKS vs DC: Key Takeaways from the game
One of the defining aspects of the match was Delhi's middle-order resilience. From a precarious position, Axar and Miller showcased composure and aggression, reviving the chase and keeping their side in contention.
Punjab's death bowling, however, proved to be a major concern. Despite a strong Powerplay and a solid total on the board, the inability to contain runs in the final overs allowed Delhi to claw their way back.
Another major positive for Delhi was the all-round performance of Madhav Tiwari. The youngster impressed with the ball earlier, picking up two key wickets, and later contributed a crucial unbeaten 18 in the chase, showing maturity under pressure.
Ashutosh Sharma also played a vital cameo, while Auqib Nabi sealed the victory with a decisive six in the closing stages.
For Punjab, this defeat marks a fourth consecutive loss, raising concerns about momentum and consistency. Delhi, on the other hand, has kept its slim playoff hopes alive, setting up an intense finish to its league campaign.
