DPL 2026: Central Delhi Kings Edge Purani Dilli 6 in Opener

NEW DELHI — The third season of the Delhi Premier League (DPL) opened with a high-scoring blockbuster on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Central Delhi Kings edged Purani Dilli 6 by four wickets in a thrilling chase of 203 runs, successfully kicking off the month-long Twenty20 tournament. Despite a sensational unbeaten century of 105 off 59 balls from Purani Dilli 6 skipper Anuj Rawat, Central Delhi Kings executed a calculated run chase anchored by captain Yash Dhull’s 72 off 45 deliveries. The opening match set an entertaining benchmark for the 44-match tournament organized by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA).

Anuj Rawat’s Masterclass Rescues Purani Dilli 6

Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, Central Delhi Kings quickly made early inroads into the Purani Dilli 6 top order. Fast bowlers Money Grewal and Divij Mehra removed the opening partnership cheaply, leaving Purani Dilli 6 reeling at 30/3 inside the initial five overs.

However, captain Anuj Rawat paired up with Dev Lakra to construct a massive 132-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Lakra played an anchor role with 53 runs off 37 balls, featuring six boundaries and a six. Meanwhile, Rawat unleashed a barrage of power hitting, smashing 11 fours and five sixes across the ground.

Rawat survived a dropped catch on 99 before bringing up the first century of DPL 2026 on the very next delivery. His unbeaten 105 off 59 balls propelled Purani Dilli 6 to a formidable total of 202/4 in their allotted 20 overs.

Yash Dhull Anchors Central Delhi Kings' Tactical Chase

Chasing a target of 203, Central Delhi Kings started aggressively. Openers Yash Dhull and Siddharth Joon capitalized on the field restrictions during the powerplay, putting together 65 runs in just 4.5 overs. Joon contributed a quickfire 23 off 14 balls before being caught off Rajneesh Dadar.

Dhull maintained momentum alongside Yugal Saini (22 off 16 balls). Despite losing middle-order partner Jonty Sidhu for a duck, Dhull notched a composed half-century to keep the required run rate manageable. He eventually fell for 72 off 45 balls, caught at short third man off a Pankaj Jaswal short ball.

A late flourish from Vansh Bedi, who scored 28 off 13 balls, brought the Kings within striking distance. With three runs needed off the final over, Keshav Dabas and Jasvir Sehrawat sealed the game with five balls to spare as Central Delhi Kings finished at 204/6 in 19.1 overs.

High-Octane Opening Ceremony Marks Season Launch

Prior to the match, the Delhi Premier League hosted an inauguration ceremony attended by local dignitaries and cricket supporters. Musical performances by singers Sukhbir Singh and Sunanda Sharma headlined the pre-match entertainment, setting an energetic tone for the 2026 season.

The tournament features eight franchise teams competing across 40 league fixtures followed by four playoff encounters through August 30, 2026.

Official Sources Section

According to official match records published by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) and tournament broadcast partners, match scores and player statistics were formally verified following the completion of play at Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Quote Section

"According to officials and match referees, the opening fixture demonstrated exceptionally high competitive standards and turf conditions, reflecting the growing stature of state-level franchise T20 cricket in India."

Why It Matters

The victory gives Central Delhi Kings two crucial points on the tournament leaderboard and early momentum in the standings. For local cricket fans and talent scouts, the tournament serves as a primary pipeline for highlighting emerging players alongside established Indian Premier League (IPL) stars.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Match Result: Central Delhi Kings beat Purani Dilli 6 by 4 wickets (204/6 in 19.1 overs vs 202/4 in 20 overs).

• Top Batter (Purani Dilli 6): Anuj Rawat – 105* off 59 balls (11x4, 5x6).

• Top Batter (Central Delhi Kings): Yash Dhull – 72 off 45 balls.

• Tournament Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

• Organizer: Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA).

FAQ Section

Who won the opening match of DPL 2026?

Central Delhi Kings won the opening match of DPL 2026, defeating Purani Dilli 6 by four wickets on July 31, 2026.

Who scored the first century of Delhi Premier League 2026?

Purani Dilli 6 captain Anuj Rawat scored the first century of DPL 2026, making an unbeaten 105 off 59 balls.

What was the final score of the match?

Purani Dilli 6 scored 202/4 in 20 overs, while Central Delhi Kings chased it down by scoring 204/6 in 19.1 overs.

Where is the Delhi Premier League 2026 being hosted?

All matches for DPL 2026 are scheduled to take place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

Source: Official releases from the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) and official updates from the Delhi Premier League.