“I think SRH”: Axar Patel names winners of IPL after dominating win over KKR in – I think SRH: Axar Patel names winners of IPL after dominating win over KKR in IPL 2026
A Resounding Finish for the Delhi Capitals
In the final group stage encounter of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) welcomed the Delhi Capitals (DC) to the iconic Eden Gardens. Although both franchises had already been eliminated from playoff contention prior to the first ball being bowled, the match provided a platform for pride and professional redemption. Under the leadership of Axar Patel, the Delhi Capitals secured a comprehensive 40-run victory, ensuring they concluded their season on a high note.
DC’s Batting Brilliance
After KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and elected to field, the Delhi Capitals set about building a challenging total. The opening pair of KL Rahul and Abishek Porel provided a breezy start. While Porel could not capitalize on the opportunity and departed for 22, the momentum was maintained by Sahil Parakh, who added a quick-fire 24. KL Rahul showcased his class throughout the innings, bringing up a half-century in just 25 balls before eventually being dismissed for a vital 60 runs.
The middle order provided the necessary acceleration to push the total toward a competitive mark. Captain Axar Patel contributed a valuable 39, supported by David Miller (28) and Ashutosh (18). Collectively, these contributions allowed the Capitals to post a formidable 203/5 in their allotted 20 overs.
The KKR Collapse
In response, the Kolkata Knight Riders began with intent. Ajinkya Rahane and Finn Allen established a decent platform, but the scoring rate proved difficult to maintain as the innings progressed. Finn Allen returned to the pavilion after scoring 20, while Manish Pandey chipped in with 25. Rahane fought hard to anchor the chase, registering his second fifty of the season in 31 deliveries.
The tide turned dramatically once Rahane was dismissed for 63. A spectacular batting collapse ensued, with the Knight Riders losing 7 wickets in the span of just 36 runs. The Delhi Capitals’ disciplined bowling attack ensured that KKR was bowled out for 163, handing the visitors a dominant win to end their tournament.
Axar Patel on the Title Favorites
Following the match, the focus shifted to the upcoming playoff stages. During the post-match presentation, Axar Patel offered his expert assessment on which team holds the best chance of lifting the trophy. When asked about the strongest side among the qualifiers, the DC captain did not hesitate. “I think SRH are looking very strong,” Patel stated. “When their top three score runs, that team becomes very difficult to stop. So I think SRH.”
Vivaan Sharma is a senior cricket analyst based in Hyderabad known for his in-depth coverage of IPL strategy, bowling performance metrics, and advanced cricket statistics. He has worked with multiple sports media platforms to deliver analytical content for cricket fans and fantasy league followers.
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