IPL 2026: Tim David denies single, falls next ball as costly blunder triggers RCB slide
Tim David's refusal of a single proved costly as Royal Challengers Bengaluru faltered in their chase against Delhi Capitals. David's dismissal for 26 off 17 balls, after turning down a run, marked a significant shift in momentum. Earlier, a disciplined bowling effort from Delhi restricted RCB to 175 for 8, despite a strong start from Phil Salt.
A split-second decision from Tim David turned into a defining moment as Royal Challengers Bengaluru lost their grip against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. The turning point came in the 15. 1 over when Tim David, facing Delhi skipper Axar Patel, heaved one towards deep mid-wicket.
A single was available, but he turned it down, leaving Jitesh Sharma stranded at the non-striker’s end. What followed proved costly. On the very next ball, Axar took pace off and pushed it wider.
David had to stretch for it and never looked in control, managing only a leading edge that lobbed towards short third man, where T Natarajan completed a simple catch. David walked back for 26 off 17 balls, and the momentum shifted instantly. His dismissal, coming right after turning down a run, summed up RCB’s stuttering finish.
Earlier, Delhi Capitals produced a disciplined bowling effort to restrict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to 175 for 8. Opting to bowl first, Axar led from the front with two wickets, supported well by Kuldeep Yadav and Lungi Ngidi, who also picked up two each. RCB’s innings was built around Phil Salt, who scored a fluent 63 off 38 balls.