Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020
Sanju Samson produced a match-winning unbeaten 87 to guide Chennai Super Kings to a crucial eight-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals on May 6, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, keeping their IPL playoff hopes alive. Chasing 156 on a tricky surface, Chennai recovered from early setbacks to seal the win with 15 balls remaining, a result that strengthens their position in a tight race for the top four.
Chennai’s bowlers set the tone early
Delhi Capitals struggled after choosing to bat first, losing five wickets for just 69 runs. The pitch offered grip and uneven bounce, and Chennai’s bowlers kept things tight throughout. Noor Ahmad led the effort with 2-22, while Akeal Hosein and the pace unit chipped in with disciplined spells.
Tristan Stubbs scored 38, and Sameer Rizvi added an unbeaten 40, lifting Delhi to 155-7. The crowd sensed a late push, but Chennai never lost control.
Samson anchors composed chase
Chennai’s reply began shakily with two early wickets, but Samson steadied things with calm shot selection and timely aggression. His 52-ball knock included seven fours and six sixes, and his unbeaten 114-run partnership with Kartik Sharma, who made 41, sealed the match.
“More than grateful to have Sanju in the side,” said skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. “So obviously he’s backbone now, but bowling is something which wins you tournaments.”
Playoff race tightens
Delhi’s sixth defeat puts them under pressure. “We cannot afford any mistakes now,” said captain Axar Patel.
