Delhi Capitals Keep Playoff Hopes Alive with 19-Run Win over Lucknow Super Giants

Delhi Capitals (DC) secured a crucial 19-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their final group stage match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The win keeps DC's hopes of a top-four finish alive, albeit mathematically.

LSG, who have one game remaining against Mumbai Indians, are not yet eliminated, but both teams will need favorable results from other matches to qualify for the playoffs.

Chasing a challenging target of 209, LSG found themselves in a precarious position at 44 for 4. However, Nicholas Pooran's blistering 61 and Arshad Khan's unbeaten 58 at number eight brought them back into contention.

Pooran's innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, as he smashed six fours and four sixes in his 34-ball knock. Khan, meanwhile, played a responsible innings, anchoring the chase and hitting five fours and two sixes in his 41-ball stay.

Despite their valiant efforts, LSG fell short in the final over. Rasikh Salam, who had conceded 14 runs in his previous over, defended 20 runs in the final six deliveries to secure the victory for DC.

Earlier, DC had posted a competitive total of 208 for 4, thanks to half-centuries from Lalit Yadav (58) and Phil Salt (57). Rovman Powell also chipped in with a quickfire 35 off 18 balls.

For LSG, Naveen-ul-Haq was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 for 51. Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan also picked up a wicket each.

Tags: #IPL2024, #DelhiCapitals, #LucknowSuperGiants, #NicholasPooran, #ArshadKhan