Khaleel Ahmed Sets 'Unwanted' Record in DC's Third IPL 2023 Fixture Against RR
Khaleel Ahmed in action [Source: Twitter]
The eleventh match of the ongoing Indian Premier League season saw Rajasthan Royals' openers, Jos Buttler and Yashasvi Jaiswal, go gung-ho against Delhi Capiatls' bowlers to ensure a dream start for their side. The dynamic opening duo cleared their aggressive intentions right from the word go, setting the tone for a massive total for the home side.
Speaking of Jaiswal, the stylish southpaw was at his absolute best, as he smacked the DC bowlers to all parts of the ground, compiling a glorious half century. The Mumbai batter started off with five stunning fours in the very first over, leaving DC's opening bowler Khaleel Ahmed in disarray.
Khaleel, who was hit for 20 runs, set the record for the most expensive first over in IPL 2023. This was also the second-most expensive first over in the IPL history. Notably, Dirk Nannes' 21-run over against Deccan Chargers in 2009 is still the most expensive opening over in the IPL history.
Despite getting a fantastic start, the Royals lost the momentum in the middle overs, as Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag recorded failures with the bat. However, some clean striking from Jos Buttler and Shimron Hetmyer ensured a fitting finish for them, powering them to 199 in 20 overs.
 "Debashis Sarangi")