Vipraj Nigam Shines in IPL Debut, Boosts Delhi Capitals' Performance

Vipraj Nigam's Impressive IPL Debut

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], April 11: Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron praised spin all-rounder Vipraj Nigam for his outstanding performance in his inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season, describing him as a "valuable asset" for the Delhi Capitals (DC).

Vipraj's economical leg-spin was a key factor in DC's victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Thursday. He recorded figures of 2 wickets for 18 runs in four overs, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 4.5, which included the notable dismissals of Virat Kohli and all-rounder Krunal Pandya.

During the 'Match Centre Live' segment, JioStar Expert Varun remarked, "Vipraj was exceptional tonight; he’s a fantastic discovery for Delhi Capitals. He has made significant contributions with both bat and ball. Moving forward, he represents great value for the investment made by Delhi Capitals. We need more domestic talents like him to rise in the IPL and help their teams succeed."

Former South African captain Mark Boucher also commended the league for its role in showcasing emerging talent, humorously expressing a desire to take a few Indian spinners back to South Africa.

"Many players are stepping up for their teams, many of whom were previously unknown on the international stage. That’s the beauty of the IPL—it provides these players with a platform to shine and make a name for themselves. India is truly fortunate to have such talented spinners. I wish I could take a couple back with me to South Africa," he added.

Delhi Capitals acquired Nigam for Rs 50 lakhs, and he had already proven his mettle in the UPT20 League 2024 with the Lucknow Falcons, taking 20 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 13.85, with best bowling figures of 5/19.

In his IPL debut against Lucknow Super Giants, he took 1/35 and made a quickfire 39 runs off 15 balls, aiding DC in chasing down 210 runs from a precarious position of 65/5. To date, in four matches, he has claimed five wickets at an average of 20.20, with an economy rate of 8.41 and best figures of 2/18.

After choosing to bowl first, Delhi Capitals, spearheaded by the spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav (2/17) and Vipraj Nigam (2/18), limited the home team to 163/7 in their 20 overs. Notable contributions came from Phil Salt (37 runs off 17 balls, including four boundaries and three sixes) and Tim David (37* off 20 balls, with two fours and four sixes), despite a strong 61-run partnership between Salt and Virat Kohli (22 runs off 14 balls, with one four and two sixes).

Delhi Capitals faced early trouble at 58/4, but Rahul and Tristan Stubbs formed a resilient partnership, adding an unbeaten 111 runs for the fifth wicket, leading their team to a decisive victory. Rahul scored an impressive 93 off 53 balls, featuring seven fours and six sixes, while Stubbs contributed 38* off 23 balls, with four boundaries and a six, marking DC's fourth win.

Currently, DC holds the second position with four victories in four matches, while RCB is in fourth place with three wins and two losses out of five matches.

KL was awarded the 'Player of the Match.'