MI Survive Karun Nair Scare to Beat DC by 12 Runs: In a high-scoring thriller at the IPL 2025, the Mumbai Indians (MI) held their nerve to defeat the Delhi Capitals (DC) by 12 runs, ending their recent run of defeats. After posting a competitive 205, MI’s bowlers managed to restrict DC to 193 despite a valiant knock from Karun Nair.
MI’s Batting Firepower Shines
Put in to bat first, MI got off to a strong start with openers Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton adding 47 runs. Rickelton was particularly aggressive, smashing 41 off just 25 balls before falling in the powerplay. Suryakumar Yadav then took charge with a brisk 40 off 28, setting the stage for the middle order.
The real acceleration came from Tilak Varma and Naman Dhir, who stitched together a fiery 62-run stand. Varma continued his fine form, scoring a brilliant 59 off 33, while Dhir provided the late flourish with a rapid 38 off just 17 balls. Kuldeep Yadav was DC’s standout bowler, taking 2/23, but the rest of the attack struggled to contain MI’s onslaught.
Karun Nair’s Heroics in Vain
Chasing 206, DC suffered an early blow as Deepak Chahar removed Jake Fraser-McGurk for a golden duck. However, Karun Nair turned the game on its head with a breathtaking 89 off just 40 balls, including 12 fours and 5 sixes. His explosive partnership with Abhishek Porel (119 runs) kept DC in the hunt.
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Just when it seemed DC would cruise to victory, Mitchell Santner dismissed Nair, triggering a dramatic collapse. KL Rahul (15) and the middle order failed to capitalize, with two run-outs in the penultimate over sealing DC’s fate. Jasprit Bumrah and Karn Sharma applied pressure in the death overs, ensuring MI clinched a hard-fought win.
Turning Point
Nair’s dismissal in the 13th over proved decisive, as DC lost their last six wickets for just 46 runs. Mumbai’s disciplined bowling at the death, combined with sharp fielding, ensured they defended their total successfully.
Key Performances
- Mumbai Indians: Tilak Varma (59), Naman Dhir (38), Suryakumar Yadav (40)
- Delhi Capitals: Karun Nair (89), Kuldeep Yadav (2/23)
- POTM: Tilak Varma for his match-defining half-century.
With this win, MI revived their campaign, while DC’s unbeaten streak came to an end in a nail-biting finish.
