The Delhi Capitals (DC) finally got their IPL 2024 campaign off the ground with a convincing 20-run victory over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. While technically a DC “home” game, the yellow sea of CSK jerseys painted the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere for MS Dhoni’s potential last match at the venue.
Khaleel Ahmed stifles CSK
Delhi Capitals’ pacer Khaleel Ahmed was the star of the show. He reveled in the swinging conditions, dismissing both Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra cheaply in his opening spell. His tight bowling and three crucial wickets in the powerplay restricted CSK’s run flow and put them on the back foot.
Khaleel Ahmed in the post-match press conference said about his performance:
“I was waiting for a match in which I could perform well for the Delhi Capitals.When I started the game, I recognised that I am getting the swing. And I thought it’s better that I utilise it by taking wickets now. It was in my mind to not give them any chance. And it was an opportunity for me, and I backed it.”
Memorable Night for MS Dhoni
Despite the loss, the night belonged to MS Dhoni. The thousands of CSK fans who thronged the stadium, creating a “home away from home” atmosphere, erupted in cheers for their beloved former captain. Dhoni, playing in what may be his final IPL appearance at Visakhapatnam, received a thunderous ovation during the warm-up and throughout the match.
Khaleel Ahmed in the post-match press conference also talked about kind of support CSK get from crowd all over India despite being the away team.
“CSK play all their IPL matches in home ground. We also respect that. When you win you get the momentum. When your opposition knows that you have defeated a big opponent, than energy in ground is different.”
DC Capitalize on Momentum Swing
The unwavering support for CSK, however, couldn’t translate into victory. Delhi, buoyed by their first win and the enthusiastic crowd support (albeit for the opposition), played with a newfound confidence. Their all-round performance, with contributions from Prithvi Shaw, David Warner, and Rishabh Pant with the bat, proved too much for CSK to overcome.
Khaleel Ahmed post-match PC
In the post-match press conference, Khaleel Ahmed expressed his delight at finally delivering a match-winning performance for DC. He acknowledged the swing-friendly conditions and capitalized on the opportunity to take early wickets, stifling CSK’s chase. This win, he said, was a morale booster for the team, especially coming after two opening losses.
Khaleel Ahmed in the post-match press conference said on DC’s first win of the season:
“We are very happy to have first points on the table. When you lose two matches, you feel very bad. It was our first home game also, that also gave us some added confidence.”
DC vs CSK: Tale of Two Teams
The contrasting emotions for both teams were evident. While DC celebrated their first win and the positive energy it brings, CSK must regroup and address their batting woes. Khaleel Ahmed’s observation that CSK enjoys a “home ground” atmosphere everywhere they play highlights the immense fan following Dhoni commands. However, for CSK to turn their season around, they’ll need more than just passionate supporters; they’ll need a collective effort with both bat and ball.
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