Delhi Capitals (DC) continued their sensational unbeaten run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 with a commanding six-wicket victory against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 10, 2025, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Led by a breathtaking 93 not out from KL Rahul, DC chased down RCB’s 163 for 7 with 14 balls to spare, marking their fourth consecutive win and solidifying their position as the only undefeated team in the tournament. This thrilling match showcased DC’s resilience, depth, and ability to thrive under pressure, making them early favorites in the race for the IPL crown. Here’s how the game unfolded and why DC’s dream run is capturing hearts.
In This Article:
A Rocky Start for DC’s Chase
Chasing 164, DC’s innings got off to a shaky start. RCB’s pace spearhead Bhuvneshwar Kumar struck early, dismissing openers Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser-McGurk cheaply in a tight opening over that yielded just one run. By the sixth over, DC were reeling at 58 for 4, with Abishek Porel and Axar Patel also back in the dugout. The required run rate was creeping up, and RCB’s bowlers, backed by a roaring Chinnaswamy crowd, sensed an opportunity to break DC’s winning streak.
But DC had an ace up their sleeve in KL Rahul, whose composure and class turned the game on its head. Paired with the dynamic Tristan Stubbs, Rahul stitched together an unbeaten 111-run partnership off just 55 balls, transforming a precarious situation into a dominant chase. Rahul’s ability to anchor while accelerating when needed was on full display, proving why he’s one of India’s finest T20 batters.
KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs: The Game-Changers
Rahul’s 93 off 53 balls was a masterclass in controlled aggression. He peppered the boundary with seven fours and smashed six sixes, including a match-sealing maximum off Yash Dayal in the 18th over. His knock was a blend of elegant drives, calculated risks, and brute power, ensuring DC stayed ahead of the asking rate. A standout moment came when he took on RCB’s Suyash Sharma, lofting him for a towering six to shift the momentum decisively.
Tristan Stubbs played the perfect foil, scoring an unbeaten 38 off 23 balls. His aggressive strokeplay, including a six and two fours in a single over from Sharma, kept RCB’s bowlers under pressure. Together, Rahul and Stubbs dismantled RCB’s attack, with Bhuvneshwar (2 for 26) being the only bowler to pose a consistent threat. By the time Rahul hammered a six to finish the game, DC had chased 169 for 4, leaving RCB stunned and their fans silenced.
RCB’s Fight with the Bat
Earlier, RCB, batting first after losing the toss, posted 163 for 7 on a pitch that offered some assistance to bowlers. Openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt started briskly, with Salt smashing 37 off 17 balls, including a flurry of boundaries off Mitchell Starc. However, DC’s bowlers, led by Starc (2 wickets) and Kuldeep Yadav (2 wickets), clawed their way back. Kuldeep’s miserly spell, with an economy of 6.00, stifled RCB’s middle order, dismissing Rajat Patidar (25) and breaking a budding partnership.
Tim David’s unbeaten 37 off 20 balls provided late fireworks, but regular wickets kept RCB in check. DC’s fielding was sharp, and their bowlers executed their plans well, ensuring RCB couldn’t post a daunting total. Despite a decent effort, RCB’s batting lacked the firepower to set a score beyond DC’s reach, especially against a side brimming with confidence.
DC’s Unbeaten Run: What’s Driving It?
DC’s victory over RCB was their fourth in four matches, a stark contrast to their inconsistent campaigns in previous seasons. Their season began with a thrilling one-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants, thanks to Ashutosh Sharma’s unbeaten 66. They followed it up with a seven-wicket rout of Gujarat Titans and a historic 25-run triumph over Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk—their first win there since 2010. Now, with the RCB scalp under their belt, DC sit atop the points table, their net run rate soaring.
Several factors are fueling DC’s dominance. KL Rahul’s form has been pivotal, with his 93 not out adding to an already impressive season tally. The bowling unit, featuring Starc’s fiery pace, Kuldeep’s spin wizardry, and the steady T. Natarajan, has been relentless. Axar Patel’s captaincy has brought calm decision-making, while the team’s ability to bounce back from early setbacks—like the 58 for 4 against RCB—shows their mental toughness. Add to that a relaxed team environment, with players enjoying ample rest between games, and DC are firing on all cylinders.
A Bitter Pill for RCB
For RCB, the loss was a setback after a promising start to IPL 2025. With three wins in four games, they were level with DC on points but have now slipped behind. Their bowling, despite Bhuvneshwar’s heroics, lacked penetration in the death overs, and their batting couldn’t capitalize on a solid foundation. Virat Kohli, who has been striking at 162 in the powerplay this season, will rue not converting his start, while the middle order’s failure to accelerate cost them dearly. RCB’s home record remains a concern—they’ve won just four of eight games at Chinnaswamy since last year—and they’ll need to regroup quickly.
What’s Next for Delhi Capitals?
DC’s unbeaten streak has set the tone for IPL 2025, but tougher tests await. Their next match is against Mumbai Indians on April 13 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, followed by clashes against Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans. With the league stage running until May 18, DC will aim to maintain their momentum and secure a top-two spot for a direct shot at the final in Kolkata on May 25. If Rahul and Co. continue their form, and their bowlers keep delivering, DC could be on course for their maiden IPL title.
A Team to Watch
Delhi Capitals’ six-wicket win over RCB on April 10, 2025, was more than just another victory—it was a statement. KL Rahul’s match-defining 93 not out, backed by Stubbs’ flair and a disciplined bowling effort, showcased a team in complete control. Four games, four wins, and a fearless approach make DC the standout side in IPL 2025 so far. For fans, it’s a thrilling ride, and for rivals, a daunting challenge. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on DC to see if they can keep their unbeaten dream alive and finally lift the trophy that has eluded them for so long.
Yesterday’s match was a testament to Delhi Capitals’ grit and flair, with KL Rahul leading from the front to extend their perfect record. Their ability to chase under pressure, coupled with a balanced squad, makes them a force to be reckoned with. As the IPL 2025 season heats up, DC’s unbeaten run is not just a statistic—it’s a story of belief, skill, and the hunger to create history.
-By Manoj H
