New Delhi [India], April 14: Despite a stunning 89-run knock from Karun Nair, the Delhi Capitals (DC) fell 12 runs short in their IPL 2025 opener against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday.
Chasing a stiff target of 206, DC were hampered by a series of wickets at regular intervals, resulting in a heartbreaking defeat, despite Nair’s valiant innings in his first appearance of the season.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Nair expressed disappointment over the outcome but maintained an optimistic tone:
“It’s a learning for all of us. I’m disappointed that we couldn’t win. We needed a set batter till the end. Losing wickets consistently made it tough. But we will take this as a lesson and prepare better for the next match,” he said, as per a Delhi Capitals press release.
The 32-year-old also addressed his preparation and mindset coming into the match, especially after stepping in for the injured Faf du Plessis.
“We knew as a squad that anyone could be called in at any time. Mentally, I was ready. I’ve been working hard and waiting for my opportunity. I’m happy I could make an impact, though the result didn’t go our way,” Nair added.
Nair also reflected on his approach against MI’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, stating:
“He’s the best bowler in world cricket at the moment. It was important to pick the right balls and back my strengths. I had to be alert and play to my areas.”
In the match, Mumbai Indians posted 205/5, powered by Tilak Varma’s half-century and quickfire contributions from Suryakumar Yadav and Naman Dhir. DC began their chase with an early blow as Jake Fraser-McGurk fell for a golden duck. Apart from Nair’s 89 and Abishek Porel’s 33, the rest of the batting lineup faltered.
DC now sit second on the points table with four wins and one loss, and will face Rajasthan Royals in their sixth match on Wednesday, April 16, once again at their home ground in Delhi.