Tim David and Axar Patel (Agency photo)
Tim David’s split-second decision turned into a defining moment as Royal Challengers Bengaluru lost their grip to Delhi Capitals on Saturday.The turning point came in the 15.1 over when Tim David, facing Delhi skipper Axar Patel, pushed a single towards deep mid-wicket. The single was available, but he turned it down, leaving Jitesh Sharma stranded at the non-striker’s end.What followed proved costly. On the next ball, Axar took off and pushed it wider. David had to stretch for it and never looked to take control, only managing the leading edge that raced towards short third man, with T Natarajan completing a simple catch.
He watches
Kagiso Rabada Press Conference: On Shubman Gill, GT wins and net run rate
David stormed back to make 26 off 17 balls, and the momentum shifted instantly. His dismissal, which came immediately after the tour was rejected, summed up the faltering end for RCB.Earlier, Delhi Capitals produced a disciplined bowling effort to restrict him
Royal Challengers
Bengaluru to 175 for 8. Opting to bowl first, Axar led from the front with two wickets, well supported by
Kuldeep Yadav
and Lungi Ngidi, who also picked up two each.RCB’s innings was built around Phil Salt, who scored a fluent 63 off 38 balls. He added 52 points with
Virat Kohli
for the opening stand and later forged a 47-run partnership with Devdutt Padikkal. Despite finishing the Powerplay strongly at 59 to 1, the home side failed to maintain the momentum.
reconnaissance
Which player from Delhi Capitals had the biggest impact on the match?
From 99 for 2 at the halfway mark, RCB have managed just 76 runs in the last 10 overs. The middle order faltered, with Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma unable to accelerate, leaving the total well below par on a slightly sluggish surface.