New Delhi: Delhi Capitals ended their TATA IPL 2026 campaign on a positive note with a win over Kolkata Knight Riders, while Rajasthan Royals secured their place in the playoffs with a convincing 30-run victory against Mumbai Indians. Speaking on Star Sports’ Amul Cricket Live, JioStar expert Simon Doull analysed the fine margins that shaped the playoff race, RCB’s likely opening strategy, and the crucial matchup that could define Qualifier 1 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans.
On Delhi Capitals’ win over KKR
Reflecting on DC’s final league-stage win, Doull pointed to a combination of disciplined bowling and KKR’s inconsistent batting approach.
He noted that Kolkata Knight Riders began their chase positively but lost momentum due to wickets falling at regular intervals. He also observed that earlier results in the tournament had already narrowed the contest for them psychologically.
Doull highlighted Kuldeep Yadav’s decisive spell, calling it the turning point of the match. According to him, Kuldeep’s ability to strike in the middle overs broke the game open, as he varied his pace cleverly, targeted the stumps, and forced repeated errors from the batters. Once new batters arrived, the pressure only increased.
He also praised a sharp fielding effort from Mitchell Starc, whose catch to dismiss Manish Pandey proved crucial in a tightly fought contest. Doull said such moments often separate winning and losing sides in high-pressure games.
On fine margins in the playoff race
Doull went on to reflect on how narrow the race for the playoffs had been, particularly for Delhi Capitals.
He pointed out that DC climbed significantly on the table after their win over KKR, but earlier losses—especially the heavy defeat to RCB and a narrow one-run loss to Gujarat Titans—had a major impact on their net run rate and overall standings.
According to him, even one or two different results could have completely changed their season trajectory. He stressed that in the IPL, consistency in close matches is often the difference between qualifying and elimination.
He also acknowledged KKR’s resilience, noting that despite a poor start, they stayed in contention until the final league game, while Punjab Kings too missed out despite a strong first half—underlining how competitive the season had been.
On RCB vs GT Qualifier 1
Looking ahead to Qualifier 1, Doull predicted a high-pressure contest where the Powerplay could prove decisive.
In his view, whichever team dominates the first six overs while batting first is likely to control the match. With both RCB and GT carrying strong form into the playoffs, he expects a tightly fought encounter featuring several match-winners on both sides.
He also spotlighted the key individual battle between Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, suggesting that the batter who makes the bigger impact in the Powerplay could tilt the game in his team’s favour.
Doull emphasised that in knockout cricket, early momentum often determines the outcome, especially when top-order stars set the tone.
On RCB’s opening combination
Doull backed continuity in RCB’s opening setup, suggesting that Venkatesh Iyer should continue opening alongside Virat Kohli.
He expressed caution over bringing back Phil Salt immediately after a long injury layoff, noting that returning to peak match rhythm—especially after a finger injury—can take time.
While acknowledging Salt’s quality and proven T20 record, Doull said playoff matches demand players in full rhythm and form. He highlighted Venkatesh’s recent performances at the top as evidence of strong momentum and chemistry with Kohli.
In his opinion, form should take precedence over reputation in knockout games, and RCB would be better served sticking with a settled combination, while keeping Salt as a strong option on the bench.
