IPL 2026: Axar Patel, David Miller power DC to record chase against PBKS
Delhi Capitals secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over Punjab Kings, chasing a massive 211 in Dharamsala. Counterattacking half-centuries from David Miller and Axar Patel were pivotal in the highest successful run chase at the venue. This crucial win keeps DC's IPL 2026 playoff aspirations alive, while PBKS suffered their fourth consecutive loss.
Delhi Capitals kept their IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive with a stunning three-wicket win over Punjab Kings in a high-scoring thriller at Dharamsala on Monday. Chasing a daunting target of 211, DC rode on counterattacking half-centuries from David Miller and captain Axar Patel to complete the highest successful run chase at the HPCA Stadium, finishing the job in just 19 overs. The victory came at a crucial stage of the season for Delhi, who had entered the contest needing wins to remain in playoff contention.
Punjab, meanwhile, slumped to a fourth consecutive defeat after once looking like one of the strongest teams in the competition. PBKS had earlier posted 210/5 after another explosive start from opener Priyansh Arya. The left-hander smashed a breathtaking 56 off just 33 deliveries, hammering six towering sixes in a fearless display of strokeplay.
He took apart the DC pace attack early, particularly targeting Mitchell Starc in an over that leaked 22 runs. The ball travelled quickly in the thin Dharamsala air, and Priyansh capitalised fully by dispatching Starc, Lungi Ngidi and Mukesh Kumar to all parts of the ground. However, Delhi fought back smartly after conceding 51 runs in the first three overs.
Young pacer Auqib Nabi played a key role in slowing the momentum by bowling hard lengths and extracting movement off the surface. Priyansh eventually fell to debutant Madhav Tiwari, who claimed his maiden IPL wicket when the PBKS opener was caught at deep point. PBKS lost momentum after their flying start.