In the 19th match of the Delhi Premier League Season 2, the North Delhi Strikers emerged victorious against the West Delhi Lions by a margin of 11 runs at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The win was a testament to the team’s collective performance.
Chasing a target of 166, the West Delhi Lions stumbled early. They lost two early wickets to Vikas Dixit and captain Harshit Rana, which left them struggling at 13/2. Krish Yadav, the wicketkeeper, tried to stabilize the innings with 23 runs from 23 balls, but the required run rate increased. Hrithik Shokeen played a brilliant innings, scoring 51 runs off only 24 deliveries, studded with five boundaries and three sixes. His performance was complemented by a 49-run partnership that breathed life into the chase. The Strikers gained momentum when Deepanshu Gulia took three important wickets in the middle overs. Harshit Rana then bowled a tight penultimate over to conclude the innings at 154/8, thus securing the victory.
Earlier in the match, the North Delhi Strikers scored 165/9 in their 20 overs. Sarthak Ranjan contributed to a solid start with 42 runs off 33 balls, while Arjun Rapria energized the innings with a brisk 40 off only 22 deliveries, which included three fours and three sixes. Yajas Sharma (23 off 15) and Yash Bhatia (22 off 17) kept the scoreboard moving. However, the Lions’ bowlers took wickets, which prevented the Strikers from posting a larger score.
Mayank Gusain was the standout bowler for West Delhi Lions, taking three wickets while conceding only 2 runs in his single over. Despite his impressive performance, the Lions ultimately couldn’t clinch the win.