NEW DELHI: Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar came out in support of David Miller after Delhi Capitals suffered a crushing one-run defeat to Gujarat Titans in the ongoing IPL 2026, saying the batter’s intent was right even if the execution fell short in a high-pressure finish.
In a last-ball thriller, Miller’s decision not to take a single with two runs needed off two balls became the defining moment. Facing Prasidh Krishna, the South African backed himself to finish the game but missed the final delivery. A desperate attempt for a bye ended with Kuldeep Yadav being run out by a sharp direct hit from Jos Buttler, sealing DC’s fate.
“David Miller was backing himself, he had been striking the ball well and believed he could finish it. You can’t fault that intent,” Gavaskar said on JioHotstar. “In the end, it also came down to execution. Prasidh Krishna bowled a superb slower bouncer at the right height, which made it difficult. These are very fine margins in pressure situations.”
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‘Game awareness becomes crucial’
While defending Miller’s approach, Gavaskar underlined the importance of situational awareness in crunch moments. Drawing from history, he cited Ravi Shastri’s composure in the iconic 1986 tied Test between India and Australia.
“This is where game awareness becomes crucial. It reminds me of what Ravi Shastri did in that tied Test against Australia in 1986, taking a single at the right moment to level the scores,” he said.
“In this case, in hindsight, a single might have been the better option, especially after Kuldeep Yadav managed one earlier,” Gavaskar added, striking a balance between backing intent and highlighting the missed opportunity.
Rashid shines in GT’s first win
Earlier, Rashid Khan played a pivotal role in Gujarat Titans’ narrow victory, picking up three wickets for just 17 runs to turn the game in the middle overs. It marked GT’s first win of the season.
Former England batter Kevin Pietersen praised Rashid’s impact but was critical of Gujarat’s overall bowling effort.
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“Rashid Khan was outstanding… but I don’t think Gujarat Titans’ bowling as a whole was at its best. They didn’t close the game out particularly well,” Pietersen said.
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