Visakhapatnam, March 29 (NationPress) Debutant all-rounder Vipraj Nigam emerged as one of the standout performers when Delhi Capitals took on Lucknow Super Giants in their inaugural match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 held at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium.

As Delhi Capitals prepares to clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad in their second match on Sunday afternoon, Vipraj is excited about teaming up with Indian superstar KL Rahul, who has rejoined the squad after missing the first game to be present for the birth of his first child.

Vipraj Nigam remarked that Rahul's inclusion will bolster their lineup. “To start with, KL Rahul is back for this match. Our team will achieve much better balance due to his presence. You cannot evaluate a team's potential based on a single game, as all our players are highly skilled and experienced,” Nigam mentioned during the pre-match press conference on Saturday.

In their opening match, Nigam formed a vital partnership with Ashutosh Sharma, which was pivotal in securing their one-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants. Ashutosh scored 66 not out, while Vipraj contributed a quick 39 off 15 balls as they added 55 runs for the seventh wicket, helping Delhi Capitals reach 211/9 in 20 overs.

Nigam previously took 1-35 with his leg-spin bowling, while Mitchell Starc claimed 3-42 and Kuldeep Yadav registered 2-20 as LSG posted 209/5 in 20 overs.

With the next match approaching, Nigam is eager for another successful performance, stating that the team is fully prepared for the challenge from SRH, who finished as runners-up in IPL 2025 and scored the second-highest total in league history during their opening game.

Nigam expressed that performing well in the first match has boosted his confidence, stating there is no added pressure on him. “If you excel in your initial match and help your team secure a win, it naturally enhances your confidence, and I aim to continue contributing positively for my team,” he remarked.

Regarding his partnership with Ashutosh, he noted that their previous experience in practice matches was beneficial in managing the situation during the game.

“We practiced extensively together. We have shared many insights during training, so we approached the match similarly. The pressure felt the same, but we focused on replicating our practice performance,” he added.

When asked about the bowling strategy after conceding 200 runs against Lucknow Super Giants, Nigam stated they will adhere to the plans discussed in team meetings.

“SRH possesses a formidable batting lineup, but we will execute the strategy we devised during our practice sessions,” he noted.

Reflecting on his debut in the IPL, Nigam expressed gratitude to the team management for their confidence in him.

“I am very thankful to the coaching staff and our captain for their trust in me. Despite feeling a bit nervous at first, the experience of three hours of fielding and bowling helped calm my nerves. Overall, it was an enriching experience,” he concluded.