Delhi Capitals have set a daunting target of 265 runs for Punjab Kings in the 35th match of IPL 2026. Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bat first, while the team posted a formidable total of 264 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in their allotted 20 overs, marking the highest score of the current season.
KL Rahul's Record-Breaking Century
KL Rahul led from the front with a sensational unbeaten century, scoring 152 runs. This achievement makes him the first Indian player to score 150 or more runs in a single IPL innings. He surpassed the previous record held by Abhishek Sharma, who had scored 141 runs against Punjab Kings earlier this season. Rahul's innings came off just 67 deliveries, decorated with 16 boundaries and 9 sixes. He reached his hundred in 47 balls, marking his sixth century in IPL history.
The Massive 220-Run Partnership
The cornerstone of Delhi's innings was the monumental 220-run partnership for the second wicket between KL Rahul and Nitish Rana. Nitish Rana played a crucial role, scoring 91 runs off 44 balls, including 11 fours and 4 sixes. Although Rana fell short of his century, the partnership effectively neutralized the Punjab Kings' bowling attack and ensured a massive total for the Capitals.
Innings Progression and Final Overs
Delhi's innings didn't start perfectly as opener Pathum Nissanka was dismissed early by Arshdeep Singh. Nissanka managed 11 runs off 7 balls, including two boundaries. Following his departure, Rahul and Rana took control of the game, while in the final over, Arshdeep Singh attempted to restrict the scoring with disciplined bowling. On the fifth ball of the over, Rahul executed an upper cut on a slower bouncer for a boundary to reach his 150. He took a single on the final ball to remain unbeaten. David Miller remained not out on 3 runs.
Punjab Kings' Bowling Performance
The Punjab Kings' bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs. Arshdeep Singh provided the initial breakthrough by dismissing Pathum Nissanka and finished with one wicket. Xavier Bartlett also claimed one wicket. However, the rest of the bowling unit faced heavy punishment from Rahul and Rana, leading to the season's highest total of 264/2.