Axar Patel reveals why Sunrisers Hyderabad are favourites to win the IPL 2026 ti
A Strong Finish for the Capitals
The Delhi Capitals concluded their Indian Premier League 2026 campaign on a high note, securing a convincing 40-run victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders this past Sunday. Under the leadership of captain Axar Patel, the Capitals displayed clinical precision, posting an imposing total of 203 runs before dismantling the KKR lineup for 163. While the playoff race had already concluded for both teams, the victory provided a much-needed morale boost for the Delhi camp as they look toward future seasons.
Axar Patel Weighs In on the Title Race
Post-match, the spotlight shifted from the immediate game to the broader context of the tournament. When questioned about which team stands the best chance of lifting the trophy, Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel did not hesitate. The 32-year-old identified Pat Cummins’ Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as the side to beat. Providing insight into his assessment, Patel remarked, “They (SRH) are a very strong team and when their top three batters get going, they become a formidable side.” His comments underscore the widespread recognition of Hyderabad’s explosive batting unit, which has consistently pressured opposition bowlers throughout the tournament.
The Road Ahead for the Sunrisers
Despite being labeled as favorites, the Sunrisers face a challenging path to glory. Because of a lower net run rate, they missed out on a top-two finish, meaning they must navigate a high-stakes eliminator match against the Rajasthan Royals. This crucial encounter is set to take place on Wednesday at the Mullanpur Stadium in New Chandigarh. Meanwhile, the tournament’s first qualifier will feature a clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Gujarat Titans in Dharamsala on Tuesday.
Recapping the DC vs. KKR Encounter
Reflecting on the final match of their season, the Delhi Capitals put on a masterclass in batting. KL Rahul anchored the innings with a composed 60-run knock, while Axar Patel contributed a quick-fire 39 off 25 deliveries, featuring three boundaries and two massive sixes. This allowed the visitors to reach the 203-run mark, setting a daunting target for the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Kolkata began the chase with intent, putting together an opening stand of 43 before Finn Allen fell for 20. A brief partnership between Manish Pandey and Ajinkya Rahane brought hope to the home crowd, but the momentum shifted once Pandey departed for 25. Rahane fought hard for his 63, but once his wicket fell at 128, the innings imploded. The three-time IPL champions suffered a spectacular collapse, losing their remaining wickets in rapid succession and finishing all out for 163 in just the 19th over.
Bowling Brilliance from the Capitals
The Delhi bowling attack was exceptional, led by the spin of Kuldeep Yadav and the pace of Lungi Ngidi. Both bowlers claimed three wickets apiece, effectively stifling any chance of a KKR comeback. There was even a moment of drama when Kuldeep Yadav narrowly missed out on a hat-trick after a straightforward catch opportunity off Tejasvi Dahiya’s bat was spilled by Abhishek Porel. Despite the drop, the Capitals remained in total control, wrapping up a dominant performance to end their 2026 season on a positive note.
As the tournament enters its final knockout stage, all eyes will be on whether the Sunrisers Hyderabad can live up to the expectations set by their peers and secure the championship title.
