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IPL 2026 Match 35: Punjab Kings’ Record Chase Stuns Delhi Capitals
Punjab Kings' record chase defeats Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026 Match 35; KL Rahul's 152* not enough as PBKS wins by 6 wickets.
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Match Result & Recap
In a thrilling encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 25, 2026, the Punjab Kings achieved a record-breaking chase, overcoming the Delhi Capitals by 6 wickets with 7 balls to spare. Despite a monumental innings from KL Rahul, who scored an unbeaten 152 off 67 balls, the Capitals’ total of 264/2 in 20 overs was surpassed by Punjab’s 265/4 in just 18.5 overs, marking the highest successful T20 chase in cricket history.
First Innings Summary
The Delhi Capitals set a formidable target, amassing 264/2 in their allotted 20 overs. KL Rahul anchored the innings with a blistering 152 off 67 balls, including 16 fours and 9 sixes, achieving a strike rate of 226.87. Nitish Rana provided solid support, contributing 91 runs from 44 balls, with 11 fours and 4 sixes, at a strike rate of 206.82. The opening partnership between Rahul and Pathum Nissanka added 11 runs before Nissanka was dismissed. David Miller remained unbeaten on 3 runs off 3 balls. The Capitals’ innings was further bolstered by 7 extras, comprising 6 wides and 1 no-ball. The Punjab Kings’ bowling attack was led by Arshdeep Singh, who took 1 wicket for 49 runs in his 4 overs. Xavier Bartlett also claimed 1 wicket for 69 runs in 4 overs. Marco Jansen, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Marcus Stoinis were the other bowlers used, but they couldn’t make significant breakthroughs. The Capitals’ total of 264/2 was the highest score in the 2026 IPL season up to that point.
Second Innings Summary
The Punjab Kings embarked on their chase with aggressive intent, reaching 116/0 in the first 6 overs, the second-highest powerplay score in IPL history. Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya set the tone with a 126-run opening partnership in just 7 overs, the highest-ever opening stand for PBKS against DC. Singh contributed 76 runs off 26 balls, while Arya added 43 runs from 17 balls. Shreyas Iyer continued the momentum, scoring an unbeaten 71 off 36 balls, with 3 fours and 7 sixes, at a strike rate of 197.22. The chase was completed in 18.5 overs, with 7 balls to spare, despite losing 4 wickets. The Capitals’ bowling attack, led by Axar Patel, couldn’t contain the onslaught. Patel conceded 44 runs in his 4 overs, taking 1 wicket. Kuldeep Yadav was the most successful bowler for DC, claiming 2 wickets for 46 runs in 4 overs. T. Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, and Vipraj Nigam also bowled but couldn’t make significant impacts. The Capitals’ total of 264/2 was the highest score in the 2026 IPL season up to that point.
Top Performers – Batting
KL Rahul (Delhi Capitals)
KL Rahul’s exceptional innings of 152 off 67 balls was the highlight of the match. His aggressive stroke play, including 16 fours and 9 sixes, set a formidable target for the Punjab Kings. Rahul’s performance was a testament to his class and consistency in the T20 format.
Prabhsimran Singh (Punjab Kings)
Opening the innings, Prabhsimran Singh provided a solid foundation with 76 runs off 26 balls. His aggressive approach in the powerplay overs set the tone for the chase, and his partnership with Arya was instrumental in Punjab’s successful pursuit.
Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings)
Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten 71 off 36 balls ensured Punjab’s victory. His composed batting under pressure, including 3 fours and 7 sixes, showcased his ability to finish games effectively.
Top Performers – Bowling
Kuldeep Yadav (Delhi Capitals)
Despite the high-scoring nature of the match, Kuldeep Yadav was the most successful bowler for the Capitals, taking 2 wickets for 46 runs in his 4 overs. His ability to break partnerships was crucial in the middle overs.
Arshdeep Singh (Punjab Kings)
Arshdeep Singh led the bowling attack for Punjab, claiming 1 wicket for 49 runs in his 4 overs. His early breakthrough in dismissing Nissanka was vital in containing the Capitals’ scoring rate.
Turning Points
- Powerplay Performance: Punjab’s explosive start, scoring 116/0 in the first 6 overs, set a daunting target for the Capitals and shifted the momentum in favor of the chasing team.
- Opening Partnership: The 126-run stand between Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya laid a solid foundation, making the chase appear achievable and reducing the pressure on the middle order.
- KL Rahul’s Innings: Despite his remarkable 152*, Rahul’s efforts were not enough to secure a win, highlighting the importance of team performance over individual brilliance.
Points Table Implications
This high-scoring encounter had significant implications for the IPL 2026 points table. The Punjab Kings’ victory propelled them to the top of the standings, enhancing their chances of securing a playoff spot. The Delhi Capitals, despite a strong performance, remained in the mid-table, with their net run rate taking a hit due to the large margin of defeat. Both teams will need to strategize effectively in their upcoming matches to improve their positions in the league.
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