The Delhi Daredevils displayed their batting might as they chased down Deccan Chargers’ total of 187 with consummate ease. Thanks to this win, the Delhi franchise has returned to the top of the league standings, with 18 points from 12 games. Opener David Warner was the difference-maker in this match with his domineering knock of 109*.

Chasing a formidable 188 to win, opener Virender Sehwag (4) began in typical free-flowing style by smashing Shikhar Dhawan for a four off the very first ball. But it went pear-shaped for the DD skipper as he lobbed the next delivery in the air for Cameron White to take an athletic catch. The early wicket shocked the away side, but David Warner and Naman Ojha ensured that DC didn’t press home their early advantage. The Indo-Aussie duo attacked with precision to thwart any charge from their opponents.

Warner (109*) smashed the ball to all parts of the ground at regular intervals, while Ojha (64*) played the supporting role to a tee. The inexperienced DC bowling attack couldn’t stem the flow of runs as the Daredevils assumed complete control of the game. The attacking pair put on an unbeaten 189-run second wicket partnership to see the Daredevils home in just 16.4 overs.

Earlier, Kumar Sangakkara won the toss and elected to bat first. The Chargers’ opening pair of Daniel Harris and Dhawan began cautiously against the visitors’ pace attack. Morne Morkel eventually broke the opening partnership after Harris (19) drove straight into Mahela Jayawardene’s hands. Varun Aaron got in on the action as well after Sangakkara’s (4) mistimed pull found the short mid-wicket fielder. However, the home side had some fight left in them as Dhawan and White began a counteroffensive against the might of the Daredevils. The talented Indian left-hander continued his good form in the tournament with attacking strokeplay that gave the DC fans something to cheer about. White, on the other hand, was playing his role to perfection by providing ample support and unleashing big hits at regular intervals.

This counterattack stunned DD, and the duo put together a 126-run partnership. A direct hit from Shahbaz Nadeem eventually saw the end of Dhawan, but not before he put the Chargers on top with his 84-run innings. White was the last wicket to fall, after making 65. Thanks to this effort, the Chargers ended their innings at 187 for four.

Scorecard

Man-of-the-match: David Warner for turning the match on its head with his 54-ball 109* (10x4; 7x6)