WATCH: Sarfaraz Khan takes a blinder to see-off Axar Patel in CSK’s first win of IPL 2026

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A moment of sheer brilliance from Sarfaraz Khan lit up the MA Chidambaram Stadium as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) registered their first win of IPL 2026. In a match already packed with high-quality performances, it was Sarfaraz’s breathtaking catch to dismiss Axar Patel that proved to be the turning point against Delhi Capitals (DC).

Chasing a challenging target of 213, DC started positively and were comfortably placed at 61/2 after the powerplay. With skipper Patel just arriving at the crease, the momentum seemed to be shifting in DC’s favour. However, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad made a bold move by handing the ball to debutant Gurjapneet Singh.

On the very first delivery of his IPL career, Gurjapneet bowled a short-of-length ball outside off, tempting Axar into playing an aggressive cut shot. The connection was clean, and the ball looked certain to race to the boundary – until Sarfaraz intervened.

Stationed at backward point, he reacted instantly, sprinting to his right before launching himself into a full-length dive. In a spectacular display of athleticism, he plucked the ball cleanly with both hands while airborne, completing one of the finest catches of the season. The dismissal not only gave Gurjapneet a dream wicket on debut but also completely changed the course of the match.

Worthy of watching on loooop! ➰

🎥 Sarfaraz Khan with a 𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗥 of a grab 🫴

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Sarfaraz’s catch didn’t just remove a key batter – it triggered a dramatic collapse for Delhi Capitals. From a solid 61/2, DC quickly slipped to 66/3, losing momentum at a crucial stage of the chase.

The sudden breakthrough shifted the pressure back onto the visitors, who struggled to recover from the setback. CSK’s bowlers capitalized brilliantly, tightening the screws and picking up wickets at regular intervals.

Leading the charge was Jamie Overton, who delivered a match-winning spell of 4/18, dismantling the middle order. He was well supported by Anshul Kamboj, who chipped in with 3/35 to ensure DC never got back into the contest.

Despite their promising start, the Capitals could only manage 189 in their 20 overs, falling short by 23 runs. The loss highlighted how quickly fortunes can change in T20 cricket, with one moment of brilliance often proving decisive.

Sarfaraz’s catch, therefore, was not just a highlight – it was the defining moment that halted DC’s charge and paved the way for CSK’s victory.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Fans slam Ruturaj Gaikwad as CSK skipper’s lean patch continues in the clash against DC

While Sarfaraz’s fielding heroics grabbed headlines, the foundation for CSK’s win was laid earlier in the innings by Sanju Samson. The star batter played a sensational knock, remaining unbeaten on 115 off just 56 deliveries.

His innings was a perfect blend of power and precision, featuring clean hitting and smart placement. Samson found an able partner in Ayush Mhatre, who contributed a valuable 59 off 36 balls. Together, the duo powered CSK to a commanding total of 212/2, putting the opposition under pressure right from the start.

However, it was Sarfaraz’s contribution in the field that added the finishing touch to an all-round team effort. His celebration after the catch – an energetic sprint across the ground reminiscent of Imran Tahir – perfectly captured the excitement of the moment, with teammates chasing him in disbelief.

What made the effort even more special was the journey behind it. Sarfaraz, once criticized for his fitness, has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding significant weight and improving his agility. Picked up by CSK at his base price after going unsold initially, he has now proven his value with performances that go beyond batting.

The victory marked a crucial milestone for CSK, ending their six-match losing streak at home and giving their campaign a much-needed boost.

Also READ: Fans erupt as CSK register first win of IPL 2026 courtesy of Sanju Samson’s heroics against DC