The Delhi Capitals are perched on top of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 points table after registering a healthy 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Led by their fast-bowling unit at Dubai International Stadium, DC were all over their opposition as SRH only managed to score 134/9 in 20 overs.
DC’s fast-bowling unit is comprised of the South African duo of Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada. They not only made living difficult for the SRH batsmen but also shared five wickets between them. As for Nortje, he breathed fire in Dubai.
He bowled the fastest eight deliveries of the IPL 2021. Most of them came in the first over of the match, with three of his deliveries crossing the 150kmph-mark.
Nortje clocked 151.71kmph, 151.37kmph, 150.83 kmph, 150.21kmph, 149.97kmph, 149.29kmph, 149.15kmph and 148.76kmph.
The 27-year-old from South Africa returned with figures of 2/12 in his 4 overs at an economy rate of 3.00 and 14 dot balls.
Nortje also dismissed the Australian batsman David Warner for a duck. The first three balls were express pace. As one of the balls rose from short of length spot, Warner tried to turn it into the on-side but got a leading edge that popped up in the air towards the cover point region where Axar Patel completed a low catch.
This was also the first time since April 2016 that Warner has been dismissed for a duck in IPL.
Nortje was adjudged the player of the match and he seemed happy about it.
“Missing out in the first half was disappointing. It was good to have a good start to the tournament for me. Looking at the first game here, it was good to see some grass and then yesterday’s big score – didn’t know what to expect,” the South African said.
“It was good to keep things simple in the end. Was really happy that I managed to take that early wicket (of Warner). I don’t really focus on who I’m getting out, but I’m happy I contributed to the team’s win,” he added.