Delhi Capitals signed off their IPL 2026 season with a dominant 40-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, delivering one of their most complete performances of the tournament.
KL Rahul led the charge with a blistering 60 off just 30 balls, giving Delhi Capitals a flying start after being put in to bat by KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane. Axar Patel and David Miller later added crucial runs to help DC post a massive total of 203/5 in 20 overs.
Kolkata Knight Riders began the chase aggressively, with Ajinkya Rahane playing a fighting knock of 63 runs. However, the match turned dramatically in the middle overs when Kuldeep Yadav dismantled KKR’s batting lineup with a brilliant spell against his former franchise.
Kuldeep picked up three wickets, while Lungi Ngidi also struck crucial blows as KKR collapsed from a strong position to 163 all out in just 18.4 overs. Delhi’s bowlers triggered a stunning late batting collapse, taking seven wickets in the final few overs.
The result, however, had no impact on playoff qualification as both teams had already been eliminated earlier following Rajasthan Royals’ victory over Mumbai Indians.
Despite missing the playoffs, Delhi Capitals ended the season positively with strong performances from KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, and skipper Axar Patel. Meanwhile, KKR’s inconsistent campaign came to a disappointing end after failing to maintain momentum in the second half of the tournament.
Ajinkya Rahane later praised his team’s fighting spirit despite the defeat and also dismissed retirement rumours after KKR’s exit from IPL 2026.
