New Delhi: In a match that epitomized the unpredictable thrill of the IPL, Delhi Capitals edged past Rajasthan Royals in the first Super Over of IPL 2025, thanks to Mitchell Starc’s clutch bowling and a composed chase by KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs. The Arun Jaitley Stadium witnessed a nail-biting finish as DC defended nine runs off the final over and then dominated the one-over eliminator to solidify their playoff credentials.
Delhi Capitals, posting 188/5 after Axar Patel and Stubbs accelerated late, seemed destined for defeat when RR needed just nine runs off the final over. Enter Starc, who delivered pinpoint yorkers to force a tie. The left-arm quick returned in the Super Over, restricting RR to 11/2, which included two chaotic run-outs. Chasing 12, Stubbs sealed the win with a six, capping off a night where Starc’s composure under fire earned him Player of the Match honors.
RR’s chase of 188 was anchored by Yashasvi Jaiswal (51) and Nitish Rana (51 off 28), but their momentum faltered after Sanju Samson retired hurt with a rib injury. Despite needing 73 off the last six overs, RR’s middle order collapsed under Starc’s searing yorkers, including a crucial LBW dismissal of Rana in the 18th over.
Delhi Capitals now hold the IPL record for most Super Over wins (4 out of 5), surpassing Punjab Kings. This victory, coupled with recent IPL thrillers like Mumbai Indians’ hat-trick run-outs and MS Dhoni’s vintage cameo, underscored why fans dubbed the season “IPL Is IPLing”—a nod to its relentless drama.