Backed to play freely: Rizvi stars in DC's win over LSG

Lucknow: Delhi Capitals kicked off their IPL 2026 campaign on a winning note, defeating Lucknow Super Giants by six wickets at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday to open their account.

Chasing a target of 142, Delhi Capitals were under pressure early, slipping to 26 for 4. However, Sameer Rizvi (70 not out off 47) and Tristan Stubbs (39 not out off 32) steadied the innings with an unbeaten 119-run stand. Their partnership — Delhi’s highest for the fifth wicket or lower — guided the team to victory in 17.1 overs.

Speaking after the match, Sameer Rizvi said, “When I went in, my intent was to play positively. But after we lost 4 wickets quickly in the powerplay, the situation became tough. Stubbs and I spoke about taking some time as there were enough overs left. The ball was swinging and seaming, so it was important to read the wicket first.”

“We had a simple plan that once we were set, we would capitalise on loose deliveries and play according to the situation. That approach helped us build the partnership,” he added.

Crediting the team environment and backing from the management, Rizvi said, “The coaches and support staff have backed me to bat at number four and play my natural game. That clarity and freedom gives me a lot of confidence when I go out to bat.”

Reflecting on settling into his innings, he said, “I had faced around 12-13 balls without a boundary. Then I got a loose ball which I felt I could put away. That boundary helped me settle and after that I could play my normal game.”

“It gives me confidence because I usually bat at number four in domestic cricket. I am comfortable in that role and I just try to make the most of every opportunity I get,” he further added.

Speaking about consistency going forward, Rizvi said, “I haven’t played many innings in the IPL so far, so the focus now is to stay consistent and contribute in the matches ahead.”

The Tigers produced a strong all-round effort to seal the win, led by the record unbeaten stand between Rizvi and Stubbs after 4 early breaks in the powerplay. Earlier, the bowling unit played a crucial role in restricting the opposition to 141, a total that at one stage looked set to be much higher.

Lungi Ngidi led the attack with figures of 3/27, while T Natarajan picked up 3/29. Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with 2/31, and skipper Axar Patel delivered an economical spell of 1/17 to keep things in check and set up the chase.

Delhi Capitals will next take on Mumbai Indians in their first home game of the season at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on 4 April 2026, as they look to build on a winning start to their campaign.

Tags : Sameer Rizvi, Cricket, Delhi Capitals, IPL, Lucknow