The Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2025 Eliminator between West Delhi Lions and South Delhi Superstarz witnessed both high drama and explosive batting on August 29. Nitish Rana stole the show with a match-winning century and a heated exchange with bowler Digvesh Rathi.
During one of Rathi’s overs, the South Delhi bowler halted mid-stride as Rana prepared for a sweep shot. On the very next ball, Rana backed away while Rathi was about to deliver. Tension rose, but Rana had the last word — reverse-sweeping the next ball for six before imitating Rathi’s trademark “notebook celebration.” The act provoked Rathi, who exchanged words with Rana. The West Delhi captain then charged towards him, only to be restrained by teammates.
Rathi’s notebook celebration had gained attention during his stint with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2025, where he was also involved in heated moments.
Despite the incident, Rana delivered a captain’s knock. He smashed an unbeaten 134 off 55 balls, striking at 243.64 with eight fours and 15 sixes. His partnerships set the tone: a 97-run stand with Krish Yadav off just 45 balls, followed by an unbeaten 84-run partnership with Mayank Gusain for the fourth wicket. Their effort ensured West Delhi Lions chased down a stiff 202-run target with 17 balls to spare.
Earlier, the Superstarz had posted a competitive 201/5. Skipper Tejasvi Dahiya top-scored with 60 off 33 balls, supported by Anmol Sharma’s 55 off 39 and Sumit Mathur’s unbeaten 48 off 26.
Rathi endured a tough day, conceding 39 runs in just two overs at an economy rate of 19.50.
Rana was deservedly named Player of the Match for his sensational innings.
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