Tristan Stubbs was left frustrated after a crucial moment during Delhi Capitals’ chase against Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday. The batsman was visibly unhappy with the decision which halted his rhythm at a crucial stage.
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Stubbs attempted to change his gloves midway through the changeover, pointing out that the humid conditions in Chennai had made them too wet to continue comfortably. However, the referees on the field did not allow the change, citing the rules regarding delay of play.
The South African did not like this decision. With Delhi still in the contest, Stubbs struggled to regain momentum and was dismissed in the final stretch of the chase soon after. As he walked back, he exchanged words with the umpire before dropping his bat by the steps and hitting his helmet in frustration.
Disquiet was also evident on the underground floor. Nitish Rana and head coach Hemang Badani were seen talking to the fourth umpire and trying to clarify the call.
The rules regarding such situations fall under the time wasting provisions. Under the IPL playing conditions, batting is expected to be ready when the bowler is set to deliver and any delay may be penalised. There is no special provision that allows a batsman to change equipment in the middle of a game if it delays play.
Samson runs the CSK batting show
Earlier in the evening, Chennai Super Kings posted a strong 212 for two after being asked to bat. Sanju Samson led the effort with an unbeaten 115 off 56 balls, marking his first century for the franchise and first hundred of IPL 2026.
He was well supported by Ayush Mhatre who continued to impress with a fluent 59. The pair added 113 runs for the second wicket to put Chennai in a commanding position.
Delhi Capitals started their chase brightly and scored 61 through KL Rahul and Pathum Nissanka in the power play. However, wickets at regular intervals derailed their progress as the Chennai bowlers adapted well to the surface.
Stubbs kept Delhi in the hunt with a fighting 60, but his dismissal proved to be the turning point. Chennai Super Kings eventually bowled out Delhi for 189 to record a 23-run victory, their first of the season.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
12 Apr 2026 01:00 IST
