Delhi Capitals’ stunning last-over victory: Ashutosh Sharma’s heroics secure impossible IPL win over LSG

Delhi Capitals scripted one of the most dramatic turnarounds in recent IPL history, clinching a thrilling one-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their tournament opener at Visakhapatnam. After being reduced to 66/5 in their chase of 210, the match seemed all but over for Delhi. However, Impact Sub Ashutosh Sharma produced a breathtaking unbeaten 66 off just 31 balls, propelling his team to an improbable win.

The victory underscored Delhi Capitals’ resilience and ability to thrive under pressure—an attribute they have lacked in previous seasons. It also marked a significant moment in IPL history, as teams continue to experiment with the new Impact Player rule, which allows a substitute to influence the game dynamically.

How Has Delhi Capitals Fared in Past Chases?

Historically, Delhi Capitals have struggled with high-pressure chases, particularly in games where their top order has faltered early. The franchise has often relied on aggressive starts from past stars like Virender Sehwag, David Warner, and Rishabh Pant. However, when quick wickets have fallen, they have rarely recovered from collapses of the magnitude seen in this game.

Before this match, Delhi Capitals had never successfully chased down a 200-plus total after losing five wickets inside the first ten overs. Their highest successful chase before this came in 2018, when they overhauled 219 against Kolkata Knight Riders. However, that effort was led by a top-order blitz, unlike the middle-order counterattack seen against Lucknow.

Ashutosh Sharma’s innings not only defied past trends but also showcased the evolution of Delhi’s batting strategy, shifting from early dominance to late-overs acceleration.

How Did Lucknow Super Giants Build a Strong Total?

Delhi Capitals won the toss and chose to bowl first—a decision that initially seemed justified when Aiden Markram fell early. However, Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran took full advantage of Vizag’s batting-friendly conditions, hammering the bowlers across all parts of the ground.

Marsh, known for his ability to dominate short-pitched deliveries, capitalized on Delhi’s pace attack, smashing 72 off 36 balls. His brutal assault against Mitchell Starc, his Australian teammate, was a highlight of the innings.

Meanwhile, Pooran, who has built a reputation as one of the most destructive middle-order batters in T20 cricket, continued his rich form. Having already recorded some of the fastest fifties in IPL history, he tormented Delhi’s spinners, particularly Tristan Stubbs, whom he smashed for four consecutive sixes in a single over.

At one stage, Lucknow looked set for a score well above 230. However, a strong fightback from Delhi’s bowlers, led by Starc’s three-wicket haul, restricted them to 209/8—still a challenging total but not insurmountable given modern IPL batting standards.

Delhi Capitals’ Early Collapse: A Familiar Story?

Chasing 210, Delhi Capitals found themselves in deep trouble early on. In previous seasons, similar situations have led to one-sided defeats for the franchise, with collapses often triggered by inconsistent middle-order performances.

Shardul Thakur struck in the very first over for Lucknow, dismissing Jake Fraser-McGurk and Abishek Porel in quick succession. Faf du Plessis, brought in for stability, tried to rebuild, but his dismissal left Delhi reeling.

At 58/4 after the powerplay, the match seemed to be heading towards another familiar Delhi batting failure—until Ashutosh Sharma stepped up.

The Role of Impact Players: Game-Changer or Gimmick?

The Impact Player rule, introduced in the IPL to add strategic depth, has seen mixed results across franchises. Some teams have struggled to maximize its benefits, while others have used it to perfection.

Delhi Capitals’ decision to bring in Ashutosh Sharma as an Impact Sub was a masterstroke. The rule allows teams to substitute a player at any point, effectively providing a second chance in games where early wickets have fallen.

Before this match, no Impact Sub had played a more decisive role in an IPL chase. Ashutosh’s knock not only changed the perception of how this rule could be used but also demonstrated how teams could build depth without compromising their original XI.

How Did Delhi Pull Off the Impossible in the Final Overs?

With 61 needed in the final five overs, Delhi had a mountain to climb.

Ashutosh Sharma took charge, targeting Lucknow’s bowlers with fearless stroke play. His attack against Ravi Bishnoi in the 17th over, which included three consecutive boundaries, swung momentum back towards Delhi.

Lucknow had opportunities to close out the game but failed to capitalize. A missed stumping and an LBW appeal that went against them added to the tension. Eventually, Ashutosh held his nerve, launching a six off the final over to seal the win with one wicket remaining.

His innings was reminiscent of Rahul Tewatia’s famous rescue act for Rajasthan Royals in 2020, when he turned an unwinnable match into a historic victory.

Where Was the Match Won and Lost?

Lucknow Super Giants’ slow finish was a critical factor. After dominating the first 15 overs, they lost four wickets for just 39 runs in the final five overs, preventing them from crossing 230. Delhi’s middle-over acceleration, led by Ashutosh Sharma and Vipraj Nigam, counterattacked at the right time, ensuring they stayed in the contest. While Lucknow’s bowlers had the upper hand early, their inability to handle pressure in the death overs allowed Delhi to complete an improbable chase.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

Lucknow Super Giants will regroup and travel to Hyderabad, where they face the formidable Sunrisers Hyderabad. With their middle-order firepower, they remain a strong contender but must address their death-over struggles.

Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, will enjoy a five-day break before hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad at their secondary home in Visakhapatnam. With newfound confidence from their last-over heroics, they will look to build momentum and prove that this comeback was no fluke.

A Game That Redefined IPL Chases

This match will go down as one of the most thrilling comebacks in IPL history, not only for the sheer improbability of Delhi Capitals’ win but also for how it highlighted the growing importance of Impact Players.

Delhi’s triumph, driven by Ashutosh Sharma’s brilliance, has reshaped expectations for teams struggling in chases. With the IPL becoming more unpredictable than ever, fans can expect even more thrilling finishes as teams learn to adapt and innovate in high-pressure situations.