“ If KKR Win Their Remaining Four Matches, It Will Go Down As One Of The Greatest Comebacks In Tata IPL History ”: Sanjay Bangar
Delhi Capitals kept their TATA IPL 2026 playoffs hopes alive with a three-wicket win against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala. Speaking on Star Sports’ ‘Amul Cricket Live’, JioStar expert Sanjay Bangar praised David Miller’s batting, questioned Punjab Kings’ tactical decisions during the middle overs, and assessed the increasingly competitive race for the playoff spots.
Speaking on Star Sports’ ‘Amul Cricket Live’, Sanjay Bangar analysed David Miller’s knock against Punjab Kings:
“When David Miller is in full flow, he doesn’t just dominate the leg side. We all know he can clear deep mid-wicket and long on at will. But when he starts smashing the ball through the offside and over covers, it signals he is in a different zone. That’s when bowlers know they are in trouble. The ball was coming onto the bat nicely, and there was a bit of dew on the outfield. That combination made the pitch even better for batting. The ball skidded on, and Miller didn’t have to force his shots. He just timed them, and the ball raced away. Punjab’s bowlers hardly used any slower variations. They didn’t try to change the pace or use cutters. They either went for wide yorkers or bowled predictable length balls. Miller didn’t have to worry about being deceived. He picked the length early, got into position, and just teed off. It was a clean, ruthless innings. He didn’t just score runs; he made a statement. When Miller bats like this, he can single-handedly change the course of a game.”
On how DC’s finishers helped them cross the line:
“Delhi Capitals’ win against Punjab Kings was powered by their middle order and finishers. So far this season, DC’s success has relied heavily on the top order. KL Rahul has been their main batter, scoring bulk of the runs. Nitish Rana at number three has also played key roles, though he missed this game. Sameer Rizvi helped them win early matches as well. But the middle order has been a weak link. They have struggled to finish games. David Miller has been in and out, Ashutosh Sharma has barely played, and Tristan Stubbs has been out of form. That inconsistency has hurt DC. But against Punjab, the middle order finally stepped up. Axar played a Captain’s knock. Miller was at his brutal best with power hitting. Ashutosh played a superb 24-run cameo. Young Madhav Tiwari made a pressure chase look easy. That middle order performance won them the game. Had they done this earlier, Delhi would not be stuck at seventh on the points table.”
On the tactical error that led to PBKS’ defeat:
“Punjab Kings started the season strongly with six wins, but four straight losses since have hurt their confidence. This match against Delhi was there for the taking. They were in a winning position but let it slip. Their bowling attack lacked discipline, and the dew made it even harder to execute their plans. That allowed Delhi’s batters to take charge. I felt Shreyas Iyer made a tactical error by not using Yuzvendra Chahal. He should have bowled in the middle overs. Chahal is a proven match-winner with the ability to break partnerships. Not giving him the ball was a big mistake. He should have bowled at least one over, especially after the ball was changed at the end of the 13th over. That was the ideal time to introduce spin and create pressure. Small mistakes here and there cost Punjab the game.”
On how intense the battle for the top four has turned:
“This loss against Delhi has hurt Punjab’s chances of finishing in the top two. They were flying high at the start, but now the momentum has completely shifted. They need to find a way of winning at least two out of their three remaining games to stay in the hunt of qualifying for the knockouts. Today’s game between GT and SRH will be crucial. The winner will gain a clear edge in the playoff race. From here on, every match is getting tighter. Rajasthan Royals are still in the hunt, and KKR are very much in the mix as well. KKR have won four matches in a row.
Their team balance is looking solid. The spin attack has regained its bite, and the batting unit is firing consistently. They are peaking at the right time, which is what matters most in a long tournament. Teams that build momentum towards the business end often go deep into the playoffs. KKR are in a very good space right now. That’s why their playoff probability has gone up significantly. If they win their remaining four games, they will pull off one of the greatest comebacks in IPL history. From the bottom of the table to the top four, that would be a remarkable turnaround. It will take a special effort, but with the form they are in, it looks possible.”
Watch Gujarat Titans Vs Sunrisers Hyderabad at 7:30 PM today in the TATA IPL race to the Playoffs, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network
