DC were bowled out for 193 in 19 overs while chasing the target of 206 runs.
Chasing 206 to win, DC were cruising at 119/1 in 10.1 overs, needing 87 runs to win from 59 balls. However, the dismissal of a well-set Abhishek Porel (33 off 25) and Karun Nair (89 off 40) - who looked determined to finish the game all by himself – triggered a dramatic collapse.
The Capitals ended up losing five wickets in as many overs and were reduced to 160/6 in 15.3 overs. The game ended dramatically as three consecutive run-outs in the penultimate over got DC bundled out for 193.
Leg-spinner Karn played a pivotal role with the ball for MI, taking three wickets by conceding 36 runs in his four overs. Abhishek Porel, KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs were his victims.
“Absolutely. Winning is always special. Especially in games like this. You have to keep fighting and it means a lot," said Hardik at the post-match presentation when asked if he felt relieved after MI secured their second win of the season.
“(Karn was) Fantastic. Coming in and bowling the way he bowled, showed a lot of heart, especially at a small ground like that."
The MI captain admitted that they were taken aback by Nair’s whirlwind knock. “We were running out of options regarding what to bowl at him. The way he took on our bowlers, took his chances, and the way he executed — it shows the hard work he has put in. I think he took us by surprise."
Commenting on three successive run outs to end Delhi’s innings, Hardik said: “I always believe fielding is something that can change the game upside down. We were switched on, didn’t give up, and they got the chances and converted."
Invited to bat first, Tilak Varma smashed 59 off 33 balls to propel Mumbai Indians to 205/5 in 20 overs. Ryan Rickelton (41 off 25), Suryakumar Yadav (40 off 28), and Naman Dhir (38 off 17) also made vital contributions with the bat.
Speaking about MI’s batting approach, Hardik Pandya said it depends on the situation. “Amazing. It’s always going to depend on the situation. The more the in-form players try to face the balls and take responsibility.
“Obviously, dew played a factor later. Just making sure the game is not over till it’s over. Keep fighting — that was the chatter in the group and my message to the boys. Wins like this change the momentum and bring everything back."
Mumbai Indians will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday (April 17).