Match Report: Qualifier 2 - IPL 2020
On November 8, 2020, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the Qualifier 2 of IPL 2020 saw the Delhi Capitals (DC) face off against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a thrilling encounter that underscored the intensity of the tournament.
Delhi Capitals Innings:
Delhi Capitals won the toss and opted to bat first. The team put on an impressive display, finishing their innings at 3 wickets for 189 runs in 20 overs, averaging 9.45 runs per over.
Shikhar Dhawan emerged as the star of the show, showcasing his batting prowess with a remarkable knock of 78 runs off 50 balls, striking 6 fours and 2 sixes at a strike rate of 156. Following him, Marcus Stoinis contributed with a brisk 38 off 27 balls. Shimron Hetmyer provided a late flourish, remaining unbeaten with an explosive 42 from just 22 deliveries, coupled with 4 fours and 1 six, boasting a striking strike rate of 190.90.
Extras added 8 runs (including 3 wides, 2 no balls, 2 leg byes, and 1 bye) to their total, contributing to a commanding first innings for DC.
Sunrisers Hyderabad Innings:
In pursuit of 190 runs, Sunrisers Hyderabad faced a challenging task and concluded their innings at 172 runs for the loss of 8 wickets, scoring at an economy of 8.6 runs per over.
Kane Williamson was the standout performer for SRH, scoring 67 runs off 45 balls, with 5 fours and 4 sixes. However, his efforts were not enough to guide his team to victory. Abdul Samad chipped in with a quick 33 runs off 16 balls, hitting 2 fours and 2 sixes, but a lack of substantial support from other players hurt their chase.
The bowling unit of the Delhi Capitals proved to be formidable, with Kagiso Rabada wreaking havoc, taking 4 wickets for just 29 runs in 4 overs. Marcus Stoinis also made significant contributions with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 26 runs in 3 overs.
Match Outcome:
Delhi Capitals secured a comfortable victory by 17 runs, cementing their spot in the finals of IPL 2020. This match was a testament to the individual brilliance of Shikhar Dhawan and the bowling prowess of Kagiso Rabada, setting the stage for an exciting finale ahead.
With the conclusion of this matchup, the Capitals displayed not only their batting depth but also their ability to perform under pressure, making them a formidable contender in the tournament's concluding stages.