LSG vs DC: Why Axar Patel bowled his spell in one stretch in today's IPL 2025 clash

The 40th match of the IPL 2025 season between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Delhi Capitals (DC) is currently underway at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. DC skipper Axar Patel won the toss and opted to field first. The Capitals made one change to their playing XI, bringing in Dushmantha Chameera in place of Mohit Sharma. LSG came into the game unchanged.

Interestingly, the DC skipper opened the bowling and bowled his full quota of four overs in one stretch, a move that sparked discussion among everyone. The decision was clearly tactical, as LSG’s batting line-up featured several left-handers, including Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant, and David Miller. Hence with Axar bowling early meant avoiding the risk of him being taken apart by the southpaws in the middle overs.

Batting first, LSG openers Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh got their team off to a strong start, scoring briskly in the powerplay. The Proteas led the charge with a well-crafted 52 off 33 deliveries, which included two boundaries and three sixes. He was well supported by the Australian batter, who contributed 45 off 36 balls. In the latter part of the innings, Ayush Badoni scored 36 off 21 balls.

Mukesh Kumar's four-wicket haul pulls things back against LSG

However, Delhi Capitals pulled things back in the middle overs with regular wickets and disciplined bowling. Mukesh Kumar starred with the ball, finishing with figures of 4-0-33-4 in a sensational spell. Left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc also made an impact by dismissing the dangerous Nicholas Pooran. In the end, LSG posted a competitive total of 159 for 6 in their 20 overs.

As things stand, DC are placed second on the points table while LSG sit at fifth, with both teams having 10 points. With the playoff race firing up, both sides will be eager to clinch this match and edge closer to qualification. Earlier, in the IPL 2025, DC won the match by one wicket against LSG at Visakhapatnam.