In a thrilling IPL 2025 encounter between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Visakhapatnam, an amusing moment between Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav added a touch of levity to the high-stakes match. The incident occurred during the 18th over, just before Ashutosh Sharma’s match-winning blitz that stunned LSG.
With DC struggling at 171/8 and needing 39 runs off 17 balls, Kuldeep Yadav walked to the crease. LSG captain Rishabh Pant, known for his cheeky on-field antics, engaged in light-hearted banter with his former teammate. As Kuldeep attempted to cut a delivery from Ravi Bishnoi, the ball went straight into Pant’s gloves. Seizing the moment, Pant playfully pushed Kuldeep out of the crease and removed the bails, much to the amusement of the crowd. The umpire, however, ruled it not out, recognizing the playful nature of the act.
Little did Pant know that the real drama was about to unfold. Ashutosh Sharma, who had been holding the fort for DC, turned the game on its head with a sensational knock. The former Punjab Kings batter smashed two sixes and a boundary in the same over, leaving LSG shell-shocked. Despite losing another wicket in the penultimate over, Ashutosh remained unfazed, hitting a four and a six off Prince Yadav to bring the equation down to six runs needed from the final over.
In a nail-biting finish, Ashutosh sealed the victory for DC with a towering six off Shahbaz Ahmed, earning the Player of the Match award for his unbeaten 66 off 41 balls. Reflecting on his performance, Ashutosh credited his self-belief and lessons from domestic cricket for his ability to handle pressure situations.
While Ashutosh’s heroics will be remembered for years to come, Pant’s playful banter with Kuldeep added a memorable and light-hearted moment to an otherwise intense match. The camaraderie between the two players highlighted the spirit of the game, even in the face of fierce competition.
This match not only showcased Ashutosh’s potential as a finisher but also set the tone for an exciting IPL season ahead. Fans are eagerly looking forward to DC’s next clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 30, 2025.
