IPL 2026: 'You could see his hunger' - Mukesh Kumar lauds Sameer Rizvi after match-winning show against Mumbai Indians

Delhi Capitals registered a six-wicket win over Mumbai Indians at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday, April 4, securing their second consecutive victory in the IPL 2026.

Chasing 163, Delhi Capitals reached the target in 18.1 overs, riding on the back of Sameer Rizvi’s stellar 51-ball 90 and Pathum Nissanka’s 30-ball 44 after being reduced to 7 for 2 early in the innings.

The DC bowlers produced a disciplined performance to restrict Mumbai Indians to 162 for 6 on a slow surface, with Mukesh Kumar leading the effort with figures of 2/26 in three overs, while Skipper Axar Patel, Vipraj Nigam and Lungi Ngidi chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.

Speaking after the match, Mukesh said that the team had planned to bowl first upon winning the toss, and restrict the visitors to a manageable total.

“The plan was to bowl first if we won the toss and restrict them to a lower total. That worked well—we kept them to around 160 and went on to win.” 

Mukesh also reflected on Rizvi’s performance, as the youngster has delivered successive Player of the Match performances in the tournament so far. Rizvi, who was once again introduced as the Impact Player, shifted the momentum in the middle overs and ensured DC crossed the line with 11 balls to spare.

“In practice, he’s always very positive. He used to say that if he gets going early, he can play a long innings, and he’s doing exactly that. It’s great for the team and helping us win matches. Once he settles in, he doesn’t hold back. He plays with positive intent, and we’re really happy to see that mindset. From the time he joined the camp, you could see his hunger to score runs,” Mukesh added.

Asked about the the importance of backing from the team management, he said:

“This isn’t just one or two matches; it’s a 14-match tournament. If the team doesn’t back you, it becomes difficult. Here, everyone supports each other and encourages us to stick to our plans. That backing is very important.”

On getting clarity on his role before the season, Mukesh said

“Before the main season, we have practice matches. If you perform well there, the management and team start backing you. I had good practice games and also had regular conversations with Axar bhai during the off-season. He guided me on areas to improve, saying those would be important during the season. That backing from him and the team is now reflecting in my performances."

DC will take on Gujarat Titans at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 8.