Bowling Masterclass Defines IPL 2025 Showdown
IPL 2025 has already seen its fair share of upsets and edge-of-the-seat finishes, but the DC vs LSG match brought an extra dose of drama, thanks to a handful of bowlers who grabbed the spotlight. While Delhi stormed to a convincing win, it was their pace spearhead Mukesh Kumar who really tilted the balance. When Delhi needed early breakthroughs and control at the death, Mukesh answered every call. His figures of 4 for 33 didn’t just look pretty on paper; they changed the whole vibe of the match.
What really stood out was Mukesh’s knack for getting wickets just when LSG looked like building momentum. Dismissing dangerous players like Ayush Badoni and skipper Rishabh Pant stopped LSG innings from exploding. His variations in pace and deadly yorkers in the final overs meant Delhi could attack rather than defend, pushing LSG to a moderate total of 159/6. It’s no easy task in the high-scoring world of T20 cricket, and his performance will leave LSG’s batters scratching their heads for weeks.
LSG’s Search for Answers in a Bowling Conundrum
Over in the Lucknow dugout, worries about injuries to frontline pacers meant there was extra pressure on Australian firebrand Mitchell Starc. Starc did not disappoint; he ran in hard, bowled with pace, and made sure the Delhi openers never got too comfortable. His aggression broke partnerships and kept Delhi honest, even though the scoreboard might suggest otherwise.
But LSG had to turn to their spinners, especially Ravi Bishnoi and Shardul Thakur, to try and stem the flow. Bishnoi continued to impress with his deceptive flight, while Thakur showed maturity in his variations. However, Delhi’s batters, sensing LSG’s shortage of pace options, cleverly rotated the strike and waited for loose deliveries. LSG’s spin-heavy attack failed to deliver that killer punch, and their bowling mix reflected just how much they missed a fit set of quick bowlers.
Delhi’s own bowling plan deserves a nod too. They nailed the powerplay, applying bold field placements and sticking to tight lines. In the last five overs, their discipline was simply on another level. There was no panic, no desperate change-ups, just players trusting their skills and executing to perfection.
This match made it clear again: a strong, wicket-taking attack is the backbone of any T20 side. Mukesh Kumar’s four-wicket haul wasn’t just useful—it was game-defining, and for the rest of the tournament, bowlers from both sides and beyond will be looking to hit those same high notes. When it comes to the business end of the IPL, it’s these moments with the ball that matter most. If you’re following IPL 2025, keep your eyes peeled for these bowlers—they’re already shaping the season in unexpected ways.
