Delhi Capitals young wicket-keeper batsman Abishek Porel waited for a while after Thursday night’s encounter against Royal Challengers Bengaluru to post a heartfelt tribute to none other than Virat Kohli. Even though he remained quiet with the bat, Porel used his post-match moment to click a photo with Indian legend and post a thoughtful message on Instagram.
“Standing next to someone who’s motivated a generation to dream big and work hard. He shows that success is not only based on talent but on mindset, discipline, and the desire to get up every time you fall,” Abhishek Porel wrote, reflecting the respect many young cricketers have for Kohli.
Abishek, who was drafted in as an Impact Player for Bengal teammate Mukesh Kumar, could muster only a 7 off 7 before being dismissed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar. In IPL 2025 so far, Porel has given hints of promise with a strike rate of 157.44 and average of 24.66 in four games, generally batting at No. 3 for DC.
WATCH – KL Rahul Sends Heartfelt Wishes To Bengaluru FC Ahead of ISL Final
Though Porel’s effort was short, it was KL Rahul who grabbed the limelight as he played a stupendous unbeaten 93 off 53 balls to lead Delhi to a six-wicket victory after an early slump. Targeting 164, Rahul produced a masterclass in coolness and risk-taking, particularly after he was dropped at 5 by Rajat Patidar. His 111-run partnership with Tristan Stubbs (38* off 30) repaired the innings and gave Delhi their fourth successive win.
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Rahul’s measured attack on the likes of Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood was a testament to his game sense. He played patiently at the start, carefully pacing his knock before putting the pedal down. One highlight shot was a huge sweep over mid-wicket off Suyash Sharma—a flash of brilliance on a belligerent surface.
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With the momentum in their favor, Delhi Capitals now prepare for their next match against the Mumbai Indians at home on Sunday, 13th April. All attention will be on KL Rahul and how the DC batsmen further improve in this period of the tournament.
