In a gripping encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the Mumbai Indians held their nerve to defeat Delhi Capitals by 12 runs in Match 31 of IPL 2025. Despite a valiant 79-run knock by Karun Nair, Delhi fell just short in their run chase, handing MI a much-needed victory in this high-stakes clash.

MI Set a Challenging Total

Batting first, Mumbai Indians posted a competitive total of 178/6 in their 20 overs. Ishan Kishan gave them a solid start, while Tilak Varma and Tim David provided crucial middle-order impetus. DC's bowlers, especially Anrich Nortje and Axar Patel, kept things in check during the death overs, preventing MI from running away with the game.

Karun Nair Almost Pulls Off the Impossible

In reply, Delhi Capitals got off to a shaky start, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, Karun Nair, playing his best innings of the season, anchored the chase with resilience and class. His 79 came off just 45 deliveries and included some spectacular strokeplay under pressure.

Nair’s efforts nearly turned the game on its head, but he lacked support from the other end. Once he fell in the 18th over, Delhi’s chase fizzled out, and they were eventually restricted to 166/8.

Jasprit Bumrah Shines in Death Overs

It was MI’s bowling unit, especially Jasprit Bumrah, who made the difference in the crunch moments. Bumrah’s pinpoint yorkers and smart variations proved too difficult to handle for DC’s lower order. He was well-supported by Gerald Coetzee, who picked up key wickets to derail Delhi’s momentum.

Captains Speak

At the post-match presentation, MI captain Hardik Pandya praised his team’s fighting spirit:
“Karun almost took the game away from us, but our bowlers held their nerve. It's a good win and gives us confidence heading into the next few games.”

DC skipper Rishabh Pant, on the other hand, lauded Nair’s innings but admitted his side fell short in key moments:
“Karun was outstanding today. We just needed a bit more support around him. Tough loss, but we’ll bounce back.”

Key Performers:

• Player of the Match: Karun Nair – 79 (45)
• Top Scorer (MI): Ishan Kishan – 41 (28)
• Top Bowler (MI): Jasprit Bumrah – 2/20 (4 overs)