DC vs GT Live Score, IPL 2026: Mukesh Kumar strikes early, Sai Sudharsan cleaned up – The Times of India

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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 08, 2026, 19:43:42 IST

DC vs GT Live Score, IPL 2026: The early phase of IPL 2026 has already underlined a familiar but often overlooked truth: matches are frequently decided in the middle overs. For Delhi Capitals, this phase has been a strength. For Gujarat Titans, it has been a glaring weakness.

Delhi’s campaign has been defined by resilience. In their opening game, they were reduced to 26 for 4 in a modest chase, only to script a stunning turnaround. Sameer Rizvi’s unbeaten 70 and Tristan Stubbs’ composed support turned the match around. The script repeated itself in the next game, where Rizvi once again rescued the innings with a commanding 90, guiding Delhi to another successful chase.

Gujarat Titans have experienced the opposite. Their top order has done the hard work, setting up strong foundations. However, once the middle overs begin, the momentum has stalled. Against Punjab, a solid start went to waste as the middle order failed to accelerate. The same pattern repeated against Rajasthan, where a promising chase unravelled after a strong opening stand.

This trend is not new. Gujarat’s middle order has struggled for consistency since last season, with low averages and a lack of impactful contributions. The pressure has now shifted squarely onto players like Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan to step up.

There are other storylines too. Shubman Gill’s return could boost Gujarat, while Delhi will expect more from their top order, including KL Rahul and Nitish Rana. Meanwhile, Kagiso Rabada’s form with the ball remains under scrutiny, particularly his effectiveness at the death.

With a high-scoring surface expected in Delhi, the match could once again come down to which middle order holds its nerve.

GT vs DC Live Score: Wicket! Sai Sudharsan bowled

Breakthrough for Delhi Capitals as Mukesh Kumar strikes immediately in his second over. Sai Sudharsan, who was looking in good touch, is bowled after a brisk start.

A big moment just as Gujarat Titans were settling into a rhythm.

GT: 18/1 (2.1 overs)

IPL Live Score: Sai Sudharsan picks up a boundary

Gujarat Titans moved to 18 without loss after two overs. Sai Sudharsan remains the more fluent of the two, picking up another boundary to keep the momentum going.

Lungi Ngidi kept things tighter compared, mixing his pace well and not allowing too many free hits. Shubman Gill looked watchful, focusing on settling in while rotating strike.

No risks taken, no wickets lost — just a composed start from GT as they look to build a platform.

GT: 18/0 (2 overs)

IPL Live Score: Shubman Gill finds early boundary

Gujarat Titans begin steadily despite testing conditions, picking up 11 runs in the opening over. Sai Sudharsan got things going with a neat flick for four, while Shubman Gill looked in good touch, punching one crisply through point.

There was a hint of movement for Mukesh Kumar, but the GT openers handled it well, rotating strike and finding boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking.

A solid, controlled start with no early damage.

GT: 11/0 (1 over)

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IPL Live Score: Impact Subs for both teams

Delhi Capitals for Impact Subs: Ashutosh Sharma, Auqib Nabi Dar, Sameer Rizvi, Dushmantha Chameera, Karun Nair.

Gujarat Titans for Impact Subs: Prasidh Krishna, Jason Holder, Manav Suthar, Jayant Yadav, Anuj Rawat.

IPL Live Score: Shubman Gill Returns Ahead of DC Clash

Shubman Gill is back leading Gujarat Titans, and the skipper sounded confident about both his fitness and the team’s approach ahead of the clash.

Addressing concerns around his injury, Gill provided a reassuring update. “It’s much better, thank you,” he said about his neck, adding that the issue was “something similar” to what he had experienced during the home Test series earlier.

Gill revealed that Gujarat had already made up their mind at the toss. “We were going to bat first anyways. Hopefully, if the weather stays like this, there’ll be no dew in the second innings,” he explained, indicating clarity in their planning.

On the challenge of opening, Gill stressed the importance of reading conditions early. “It’s all about assessing the conditions in the first couple of overs. I think we’ve been having some good opening partnerships with me and Sai. Hopefully, we have a good powerplay and then we can post a good total on the board.”

Reflecting on the team’s batting struggles, Gill kept it simple. “It’s all about clicking in one game. Even the last game, we came pretty close… it’s just one guy sticking till the end.”

Confirming the change, he added, “Kumar Kushagra is out and I come back in. Rest of the team is the same.”

IPL Live Score: ‘We Will Bowl First’- Axar Patel Backs DC’s Chasing Approach

Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel reaffirmed his side’s clear game plan at the toss, choosing to bowl first and continue with a strategy that has delivered results early in the season.

“We will bowl first. We’ve chased well in the last two matches and this is a fresh wicket,” Axar said, explaining the decision. With rain around in the lead-up to the game, he also pointed out the potential for early assistance for bowlers. “It’s been raining; there could be some moisture. Bowl first, have a look at the wicket, restrict them and chase down the score.”

Axar emphasised that Delhi’s approach is built around reading conditions and making smart tactical calls. “We look at the match-ups, making it as difficult as possible for the batters and choose the best possible bowlers,” he added, underlining the team’s focus on planning and execution.

Despite concerns around the top order, Delhi have opted for continuity. “Same XI for us,” Axar confirmed, signalling confidence in the combination that has already delivered two wins.

With clarity in strategy and consistency in selection, Delhi Capitals are once again backing their chasing strength as they look to extend their winning run.

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IPL Live Score: GT playing X1

Gujarat Titans (Playing XI): Shubman Gill(c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler(w), Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Ashok Sharma

GT vs DC Live Score: DC Playing X1

Delhi Capitals (Playing XI): KL Rahul(w), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Vipraj Nigam, Axar Patel(c), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar

GT vs DC Live Score: DC Win Toss, Opt to Bowl First

Delhi Capitals have won the toss and chosen to bowl first, signalling clear intent to chase under the conditions in Delhi. With a bit of cloud cover around and some early assistance expected for seamers, the decision makes sense.

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GT vs DC Live Score: Shubman Gill’s return could shift the balance

The return of Shubman Gill comes at a crucial time for Gujarat Titans. Missing the previous match due to a muscle issue, the captain’s comeback brings stability and leadership back to the top of the order.

Gill’s presence is expected to strengthen Gujarat’s already solid starts. His ability to build innings and anchor the batting provides a reliable foundation. However, the team’s problems lie beyond the top three.

Even in Gill’s absence, Gujarat managed strong starts, only to falter in the middle overs. His return alone will not fix those issues, but it could allow others to play with more freedom.

For Gujarat, the key lies in translating good beginnings into match-winning totals. Gill’s role will be to guide the innings deep, but support from the middle order remains essential.

If the team can combine Gill’s consistency with improved middle-order contributions, this match could mark a turning point in their campaign.

IPL Live Score: Slightly overcast but play unlikely to be affected

IPL Live Score: Slightly overcast but play unlikely to be affected

There’s a bit of cloud cover overhead, but conditions look stable for now with no immediate threat of rain.

IPL Live Score: KL Rahul vs Siraj- A key match up to watch

KL Rahul’s slow start to the season has been a talking point, but his record against Mohammed Siraj offers an interesting subplot ahead of this clash. Rahul has dominated Siraj in the past, scoring freely while rarely losing his wicket.

This match-up could play a crucial role in shaping Delhi’s innings. A confident start from Rahul against Siraj could set the tone and help Delhi avoid another early collapse.

Siraj, on the other hand, has struggled for consistency in recent IPL seasons. His inability to pick up wickets regularly has reduced his impact in the powerplay, making this contest even more intriguing.

For Delhi, Rahul’s form is key to building stronger starts. For Gujarat, early breakthroughs are essential to expose the middle order.

This individual battle could influence the larger narrative of the match, making it one of the most important contests to watch.

DC vs GT Live Score: Weather and Pitch Report

Conditions in Delhi could play a significant role in how this match unfolds. While the pitch is expected to favour batters, early moisture due to recent rain may offer assistance to seamers.

This creates an interesting dynamic. The first few overs could be challenging for batters, making survival just as important as scoring. Once that phase passes, the conditions are likely to ease, allowing strokeplay to dominate.

Timing will be crucial. Teams that manage the transition from cautious starts to aggressive middle overs effectively will have the upper hand.

There is also a slight weather uncertainty, with rain expected earlier in the day. While it may not disrupt the match, it could influence pitch behaviour.

In a contest where both teams have shown clear patterns, external factors like conditions might end up playing a decisive role.

IPL Live Score: Head-to-Head edge adds confidence for Gujarat

Despite their current struggles, Gujarat Titans hold a slight psychological edge over Delhi Capitals in head-to-head meetings. With four wins in seven matches, they have often found ways to come out on top.

This includes a positive record at Delhi’s home ground, which could provide a boost heading into this contest. In a format where confidence plays a huge role, past success can influence approach and mindset.

However, history alone will not win matches. Gujarat’s current form tells a different story, with batting inconsistencies costing them results.

For Delhi, this presents an opportunity to close that gap and assert dominance at home. For Gujarat, it is a reminder that they have the ability to compete and win against this opposition.

The clash, therefore, carries not just current stakes but also a subtle battle of past trends versus present form.

GT vs DC Live Score: Kuldeep Yadav’s Delhi record offers GT a window

Kuldeep Yadav remains one of the most dangerous spinners in the league, but his record at Delhi presents an interesting opportunity for Gujarat Titans.

Unlike his performances at other venues, Kuldeep has been less effective at his home ground. His average is higher and his economy rate less controlled, suggesting that batters have found ways to counter him in these conditions.

For a Gujarat middle order searching for confidence, this could be a key phase of the game. Targeting Kuldeep during the middle overs may help them regain momentum and break their pattern of stagnation.

However, this is easier said than done. Kuldeep’s variations and ability to take wickets still make him a constant threat.

The contest between Gujarat’s middle order and Kuldeep could shape the outcome of the match, especially in a phase where both teams have struggled for control.

IPL Live Score: Did you know?

Jos Buttler averages 59.5 in IPL at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground, with 357 of his 510 runs against Delhi Capitals coming at this venue, at a strike-rate of 170.81

DC vs GT Live Score: Jos Buttler’s dip adding to GT’s worries

Jos Buttler’s form has quietly become a concern for Gujarat Titans. Known for his explosive starts and match-winning ability, he has not crossed 40 in his last 10 T20 innings.

This dip could not have come at a worse time. Gujarat already rely heavily on their top order, and Buttler’s inability to convert starts is adding pressure on the rest of the batting unit.

When Buttler fires, he often takes games away early. But when he doesn’t, the burden shifts to a middle order that has struggled to deliver consistently.

The timing of his form slump has exposed Gujarat’s lack of depth. Without a strong contribution at number three, their innings often lose direction after the powerplay.

A return to form for Buttler could change everything. It would not only strengthen the top order, but also ease the pressure on the middle overs.

IPL Live Score: DC Winning Despite Chaos, But How Long Can It Last?

Delhi Capitals have two wins from two, but the manner of those victories raises an uncomfortable question: how sustainable is this approach? Twice already, they have slipped into deep trouble early, exposing a fragile top order that has yet to settle.

What has saved them is not structure, but rescue acts. Sameer Rizvi has stepped in under pressure and turned games around almost single-handedly. While that speaks volumes about his ability, it also highlights Delhi’s over-reliance on individual brilliance.

KL Rahul’s slow start and Nitish Rana’s lack of impact at number three have left a vacuum at the top. The opening phase, ideally meant to build momentum, has instead become a period of survival.

Winning games often hides flaws, but only temporarily. If Delhi continue to lose early wickets, stronger bowling units will eventually capitalise.

This clash against Gujarat Titans becomes a test of balance. Can Delhi finally put together a complete batting performance, or will they once again depend on a rescue act to keep their winning run alive?

DC vs GT Live Score: Kagiso Rabada’s form a growing concern

Kagiso Rabada’s performances in recent IPL seasons have raised questions about his effectiveness, and the early matches of 2026 have done little to silence those concerns. While he has managed to pick up wickets, his economy rate remains a major issue.

In modern T20 cricket, controlling runs at the death is as important as taking wickets. Rabada’s struggles with executing yorkers and variations have allowed batters to target him in crucial overs. His reliance on cross-seam deliveries has not yielded consistent results.

This trend has been visible over the past few seasons, with his economy rates steadily rising. For Gujarat Titans, this presents a challenge, especially in high-scoring conditions where every over counts.

Rabada’s experience and skill cannot be doubted, but he will need to quickly rediscover his rhythm. A strong performance in the upcoming match could not only boost Gujarat’s chances but also restore confidence in his role as a lead bowler.

GT vs DC Live Score: KL Rahul Under Pressure for Runs

KL Rahul’s start to IPL 2026 has been far from ideal. With just one run across two innings, the experienced opener finds himself under early scrutiny despite Delhi Capitals winning both matches.

While the team’s middle order has covered for his lack of runs, Rahul’s role at the top remains crucial. A solid start from him can ease pressure on the rest of the batting line-up and allow players like Sameer Rizvi to play more freely.

There are encouraging signs, however. Rahul has a strong record against certain Gujarat bowlers, particularly Mohammed Siraj, which could help him regain confidence. A single impactful innings could quickly change the narrative around his form.

Delhi will be hoping that Rahul finds his rhythm soon, especially as the tournament progresses and challenges become tougher. His experience and ability to control the tempo of an innings remain valuable assets, and a return to form would make Delhi an even more formidable side.

DC vs GT Live Score: Shubman Gill’s Return Boosts GT Hopes

The expected return of Shubman Gill comes as a timely boost for Gujarat Titans, who are searching for stability after two disappointing results. Gill’s absence in the previous match was felt, not just in terms of runs, but also leadership and composure at the top.

As one of the most consistent batters in the league, Gill provides the platform that allows others to play with freedom. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a steady scoring rate is vital for Gujarat’s structure.

However, his return alone may not solve all problems. Gujarat have started well in both matches even without him, but have failed to sustain momentum through the middle overs. That remains the bigger concern.

Gill’s role will be to ensure a strong start and guide the innings deep, but the responsibility must be shared by the middle order. If they can complement his presence with meaningful contributions, Gujarat could finally convert promising starts into winning performances.

IPL Live Score: GT’s Middle-Order Problem Continues

Gujarat Titans’ early struggles in IPL 2026 highlight a persistent issue that has carried over from last season: an underperforming middle order. Despite solid starts from the top, the team has repeatedly failed to build on those foundations.

In both matches so far, Gujarat were in strong positions during the first half of their innings. However, once the middle overs began, the momentum stalled. Batters failed to rotate strike effectively or accelerate when needed, leading to below-par totals and unsuccessful chases.

This is not an isolated concern. Since IPL 2025, Gujarat’s middle-order average has been the lowest among all teams, pointing to a deeper structural weakness. The lack of consistency from players in these positions has increased pressure on the top order to deliver every game.

If Gujarat are to revive their campaign, contributions from players like Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan will be crucial. Without that support, even strong starts will continue to go in vain, leaving the team chasing results instead of controlling matches.

GT vs DC Live Score: Sameer Rizvi’s Rise Powers Delhi’s Campaign

Sameer Rizvi has emerged as the early breakout star for Delhi Capitals, turning difficult situations into match-winning performances. His impact has not just been about scoring runs, but about timing and control under pressure.

In the opening game, Delhi were struggling at 26 for 4 in a modest chase. Rizvi stepped in and anchored the innings with an unbeaten 70, showing maturity well beyond his years. In the very next match, he walked in early again and produced an even more commanding knock of 90, guiding the team through another tricky chase.

What makes Rizvi’s performances stand out is his adaptability. He can absorb pressure when wickets fall, but also accelerate when required. His partnerships with Tristan Stubbs have been particularly valuable, allowing Delhi to rebuild without panic.

As the tournament progresses, opposition teams will begin to plan specifically for him. But if Rizvi continues this form, Delhi Capitals will have found not just a dependable middle-order batter, but a genuine match-winner capable of shaping their season.

DC vs GT Live Score: Middle Order May Decide DC vs GT Clash

Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans enter this contest with a clear early-season lesson: matches are being decided in the middle overs. While top orders have laid the foundation, it is the phase between overs 7 to 15 that has defined outcomes for both sides so far.

Delhi have thrived in adversity. Twice they found themselves staring at collapse, only for Sameer Rizvi and Tristan Stubbs to script recoveries with calm, calculated batting. Their ability to absorb pressure and rebuild has given Delhi an edge in tight chases.

Gujarat, however, have faced the opposite story. Strong starts from their top three have repeatedly gone to waste as the middle order has failed to accelerate or even stabilise. This lack of conversion has cost them winning positions in both matches.

With a high-scoring surface expected, the middle phase becomes even more crucial. It is where intent must meet execution. If Gujarat’s middle order fires, they can turn things around quickly. If not, Delhi’s composure in pressure situations could once again prove decisive in shaping the result.

DC vs GT Live Score, IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans head into their early IPL 2026 clash with a clear takeaway from their opening matches: the middle order is shaping results more than ever. While both teams are still settling into the season, their fortunes so far have been defined by how their middle-order batters have performed under pressure.

Delhi Capitals have thrived despite shaky starts. Twice they found themselves in deep trouble, only for Sameer Rizvi and Tristan Stubbs to engineer remarkable recoveries. Rizvi, in particular, has been the standout performer, rescuing the side from collapses and anchoring successful chases with maturity beyond his experience.

Gujarat Titans, on the other hand, have struggled to convert strong starts into match-winning totals. Their top order has consistently laid solid platforms, but the middle order has failed to capitalise. In both matches, promising positions slipped away due to a lack of acceleration and inability to build partnerships.

The concern is deeper when viewed statistically. Since IPL 2025, Gujarat’s middle-order average is the lowest in the competition, highlighting a persistent weakness. With Shubman Gill set to return, stability at the top may improve, but the responsibility still lies with the middle order to deliver.

As the points table begins to take shape, this contest could hinge on which middle order stands up. Delhi’s confidence is high, while Gujarat are searching for answers.

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