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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 saw a nail-biting encounter on March 24, as the Delhi Capitals (DC) pulled off a stunning victory against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Chasing a formidable target of 210 runs, DC found themselves in dire straits at 65 for 5. However, thanks to the heroics of Ashutosh Sharma and Mohit Sharma, they managed to clinch a thrilling win by just one wicket with three balls to spare. This match not only showcased the resilience of the team but also highlighted a pivotal moment when Mohit took a crucial single in the final over, setting the stage for Ashutosh to deliver the knockout blow.
Mohit Sharma reveals about the pressure of final over
As the final over approached, DC needed six runs to win, but with Mohit, the number 11 batter, on strike, anxiety filled the air. The experienced bowler had previously struggled with the bat and faced immense pressure. However, he managed to escape a potential dismissal when LSG captain Rishabh Pant missed a stumping opportunity. It was in this moment of tension that Mohit made a game-changing decision: he took a single to bring Ashutosh, the ‘impact player’, onto strike.
In a post-match revelation, Mohit recounted his conversation with Ashutosh before taking that critical single. He asked Ashutosh if he could hit a six if given just one ball. Ashutosh’s confident response of “Yes” reassured Mohit that he had made the right choice. “Maine baad me use bola diya ‘ek ball dunga, chakka maar lega?’ Keh raha ‘Haan, maar lunga’,” Mohit shared in a light-hearted manner during an interview with teammate Sameer Rizvi.
Here’s the video:
Also WATCH: Ashutosh Sharma celebrates match-winning knock with mentor Shikhar Dhawan post DC vs LSG match in IPL 2025
Ashutosh Sharma’s composure under pressure
Ashutosh’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. Coming in at a precarious moment in the innings, he displayed remarkable calmness and composure. With nine wickets down and his team in dire need of runs, Ashutosh focused on his game plan. He had previously stated that if Mohit took a single, he would finish the game with a six—an assertion he fulfilled with aplomb.
His innings of 66 runs off just 31 balls included several boundaries that turned the tide for DC. Former cricketer Ambati Rayudu praised Ashutosh’s ability to remain calm under pressure and noted that his calculated approach was key to their success. The partnership between Ashutosh and Mohit not only salvaged a seemingly lost cause but also became a historic moment in IPL history.
The comparison to Makhaya Ntini’s historic single
Faf du Plessis, vice-captain of DC, drew parallels between Mohit’s decisive single and a famous moment from cricket history involving Ntini during South Africa‘s record chase against Australia in 2006. Du Plessis remarked on how crucial that single was for Mohit’s career: “That’s the most important single that Mohit has got in his life,” he said. This comparison underscores not only the significance of Mohit’s decision but also highlights how moments like these can define careers.
Luck and skill: The balancing act
While luck played its part—evident from Pant’s missed stumping—both players demonstrated that skill and mental fortitude are crucial in high-pressure situations. After the match, Pant acknowledged this balance: “Definitely luck plays a part in this game… you can’t focus on these things but rather you need to play better cricket“.
Mohit’s earlier performance with the ball had been less than stellar; he conceded 42 runs in four overs. Yet, it was his savvy decision-making at the crease that ultimately turned him into an unlikely hero for DC.
This match not only marked an incredible comeback for DC but also set the tone for what promises to be an exciting IPL season. The partnership between Ashutosh and Mohit will be remembered as one of resilience and determination against all odds. Their ability to collaborate under pressure exemplifies what cricket is all about—teamwork, strategy, and seizing opportunities.