Xtra Time Web Desk: Delhi Capitals on Friday reclaimed the top position after a convincing 46 runs win over Rajasthan Royals at the Sharjah Stadium. Put into bat first the Capitals scored 184/8 with Shmron Hetmyer (45 off 24 balls) and Marcus Stoinis (39 off 30 balls) leading the way. In reply Rajasthan lost wickets at regular intervals, to get bowled out for 136 runs in 19.4 overs. The win took the Capitals on top of points table with 10 points from 6 matches.
Talking about the win, Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer said, I’m really happy with the way we came out in the second innings. We thought it was an under par score but it was stopping on the wicket and the bowlers executed their plans really well. We were also going to bowl first with the dew factor, but thankfully it went in our favour. I am enjoying captaincy because the players make it really easy, especially the bowlers. Even the way the support staff is managing the team meetings is commendable. I think the mixture in our team is really good and we have worked really hard on this. The boys have shared their thoughts pre-tour and their strengths and weaknesses. I am happy with how we are progressing and hoping to maintain the momentum. We can’t take anything lightly and need to come with our plans, execute them well.”
Losing captain Steve Smith said, “We are not playing good enough over the 40 overs, and not executing when the pressure is coming on and you can’t win many games that way. The bowlers did a good job, and I don’t think the wicket was as good as it has been here, a bit stoppy tonight, and we gave away 10-15 extra runs. We have to remain positive, turn things around quickly. At the moment it doesn’t seem to be going our way. I’m not batting too well either. I did feel good tonight with the bat but didn’t get hold of one that I feel like I should have.”
Only good thing for Rajasthan Royals is their champion all rounder Ben Stokes has finished his quarantine and will be available for Sunday’s next fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Dubai International Stadium.