IPL 2026: Plan was to cash in on loose balls and play our shots, says DC’s Rizvi after match-winning 70

Lucknow — Delhi Capitals all-rounder Sameer Rizvi credited patience and smart shot selection for his unbeaten 70 off 47 balls that guided his team to victory against Lucknow Super Giants. Walking in at No. 4 with DC in deep trouble at 26/4, Rizvi said he and Tristan Stubbs focused on staying calm, reading the conditions, and punishing loose deliveries. 

Rizvi revealed that the team management had already prepared him for the role. The coach had informed him beforehand that he would bat at No. 4 and encouraged him to play his natural game with a positive mindset. However, the early collapse forced him to change gears. He and Stubbs decided not to rush, as plenty of overs remained, and instead aimed to rebuild the innings steadily.

The Ekana Stadium pitch offered seam and swing early on, making strokeplay difficult. Rizvi said the duo chose to spend time in the middle, assess the wicket, and wait for scoring opportunities. They also felt that spinners might be easier to attack, so they planned to take calculated risks without forcing shots.

His innings began cautiously, with Rizvi struggling to 5 off 13 balls. But a boundary off a loose delivery helped him settle. He admitted that the shot boosted his confidence and allowed him to play freely thereafter. Once set, he targeted the spinners, including Shahbaz Ahmed and Aiden Markram, shifting momentum in DC’s favour. 

Rizvi also pointed out that batting regularly at No. 4 for Uttar Pradesh has made him comfortable in that position. He said familiarity with the role helped him handle pressure and rebuild the innings. Along with Stubbs, he added 119 runs for the fifth wicket, blending caution with timely aggression.

Talking about the partnership, Rizvi said their approach was situation-based. They looked for quick runs when required and slowed down when conditions were challenging. Having a partner who understands the game situation, he noted, made a big difference.

Despite steering the chase, Rizvi said he remained focused on taking the game deep rather than thinking about the finish. He added that winning a full 20-over match in such circumstances was especially satisfying.

Looking ahead, Rizvi emphasised the importance of consistency, saying he hopes to build on this knock in upcoming games. He also praised Delhi Capitals’ support staff for creating a pressure-free environment focused on skill development.

Rizvi’s unbeaten 70 ultimately proved decisive, anchoring DC’s six-wicket win in a tricky chase of 142 — an innings built on patience, awareness, and well-timed aggression. 
 

With inputs from IANS