Key Points:
- Historic Victory: Delhi Capitals defeated Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk for the first time in 15 years, winning by 25 runs.
- Elite Captaincy Feat: Axar Patel becomes the third DC captain, after Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir, to win at Chepauk.
- Strong Start to IPL 2025: DC secures three consecutive wins this season, replicating a feat last achieved in 2009.
- KL Rahul Shines: A stellar 77-run knock by KL Rahul anchored DC’s commanding total of 183 runs.
New Delhi: Delhi Capitals (DC) scripted history on April 5, 2025, by defeating Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the first time since 2010. Under the leadership of Axar Patel, DC registered a convincing 25-run victory, marking their third consecutive win in IPL 2025 and breaking a 15-year jinx at Chepauk.
A Historic Achievement
Axar Patel joined an elite list of Delhi Capitals captains who have won at Chepauk. Virender Sehwag was the first to achieve this feat in 2008 with an eight-wicket victory, followed by Gautam Gambhir in 2010. Axar’s win now cements his name alongside these legends as he led DC to a long-awaited triumph against MS Dhoni’s CSK on their home turf.
Match Highlights
After winning the toss and opting to bat, DC posted a formidable total of 183/6 in their allotted 20 overs. KL Rahul, promoted to open in the absence of vice-captain Faf du Plessis, played a masterful innings of 77 off 51 balls. He was well-supported by Abhishek Porel, who smashed a quickfire 33 off just 20 deliveries. Late cameos from Tristan Stubbs (24* off 12) and Axar Patel (21 off 14) added crucial runs to the scoreboard.
In response, CSK struggled to build momentum as DC’s disciplined bowling attack kept them in check. Young spinner Vipraj Nigam starred with figures of 2/27, including the key wicket of Devon Conway. Despite valiant efforts from Vijay Shankar (69* off 49) and MS Dhoni (30*), CSK fell short, managing only 158/5 in their chase.
Delhi Capitals’ Strong Start to IPL 2025
This victory marks DC’s third consecutive win this season, a feat they last achieved in IPL 2009 under Virender Sehwag’s captaincy. The team currently sits near the top of the points table and looks like strong contenders for the title this year. Axar Patel’s leadership has been instrumental in maintaining their unbeaten streak, with both batting and bowling units firing on all cylinders.
CSK’s Struggles Continue
For CSK, this loss adds to their woes as they suffer their third consecutive defeat this season. Questions loom over their inconsistent top order and inability to capitalize on home advantage at Chepauk.
What’s Next?
Delhi Capitals will now face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru in their next match. With three wins under their belt, DC will aim to continue their winning momentum and solidify their position as early title favorites.
This historic victory not only highlights Delhi Capitals’ resurgence but also underscores Axar Patel’s growing stature as a leader capable of delivering under pressure.
