A super over was the only thing missing in this thrilling Tata IPL 2025. The last time we had a super over was in 2021, during the clash between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, where Delhi won the match. In the year 2020, we had 4 super overs, in 2021, 1 super over, and we had a super over directly in the year 2025. Delhi Capitals have been part of 5 super overs, and they have won 4 out of those. Super overs are always fun to watch, and yesterday's was no different, as Delhi Capitals edged out Rajasthan Royals in a thrilling finish. Delhi is now at the top of the table with 5 wins in just 6 matches; the only loss they had was against MI. Rajasthan Royals are struggling, and it is visible now, with only 2 wins in 7 matches, they have lost 3 back-to-back matches.
A proper team performance from DC, but the standout player was Starc, who defended 9 runs in the last over of the match. Axar's captaincy was top-notch, taking the right decisions at the right moment. Delhi's team is looking like the Gujarat Giants of 2022. Gujarat in 2022 had a knack for winning last-over thrillers, and Delhi in 2025 is showing the same resilience. Both teams delivered complete performances during their peak.
Starc's Exceptional Death Over Bowling
Starc is such a phenomenal bowler and has been bowling great spells for such a long time now. Starc just nailed yorkers in the last, where RR needed 9 runs to win the match. He conceded only 8 runs in the last over. In the super over, Axar Patel had no other thought about whom to give the over; it was Starc again, and he gave just 11 runs in the super over. His pinpoint accuracy with length left the batters no choice but to gamble for a second run, only to end up run out.
Most of the cricketing experts were saying that the saliva was doing the trick as it has always helped Starc in getting the reverse swing in the death overs, but Starc, in post-match presentation, said, I didn't use Saliva on the ball tonight. It's a myth, I don't believe it helps reserving in white ball.
He also said that he loves to perform in clutch moment that gives him extra confidence to perform well. Even the players from the opposition team complimented Starc for his exceptional performance under pressure.
Axar Patel's Excellent Captaincy
It was a brave call to make Axar Patel the captain of the team, but till now, he has proved his worth. He is not afraid of taking brave calls in tough situations, which helps the team win the match. Also, support from KL Rahul is helping him a lot. Just before Kuldeep got Jaiswal out, Rahul had adjusted the long-on fielder, bringing him straighter—Jaiswal played right into the trap. So, support from the other team members and his thinking ability are giving Delhi the success they need.
What's so Exciting about Delhi's Pitch?
In the last 10 matches at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, only 1 chasing team has won here; the rest of the matches have been won by the batting 1st team. This ground gets a lot of dew, still, the chasing team is unable to win. Why? So the specialty of this pitch is that it gets slow as the innings go on; hence, regardless of the dew in the 2nd innings, the batting 1st team gets a slight advantage. Now, with the 2 balls rule, the dew factor has almost completely vanished, giving advantages for the bowlers.
In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, it was Mitchell Starc's composed brilliance and Delhi's collective grit that sealed the deal in a high-pressure Super Over. While both teams fought tooth and nail, Delhi’s strategic execution and key contributions at crucial moments made the difference. Performances like these not only showcase individual talent but also reflect the strength of team unity and leadership under pressure. As the tournament progresses, Delhi is emerging as a side that thrives when the stakes are highest.
About the Author
Advait Kadam is a sports writer at Vygr Media, specializing in cricket coverage and match analysis. With a background in Sports Management and a passion for storytelling, he brings sharp insights and fresh perspectives to every game.
Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Vygr’s views.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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