Former India spinner Murali Kartik has criticised Delhi Capitals for not giving talented opener Prithvi Shaw an opportunity during their crushing eight-wicket defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday in Delhi. The loss highlighted Delhi’s continuing batting struggles, with key players failing to deliver under pressure.

Asked to bat, Delhi Capitals failed to build momentum. Despite a fighting half-century from Pathum Nissanka, who scored 50 runs, DC could only manage 142/8 in 20 overs. 

The innings started on a positive note, but the middle order collapsed at a crucial stage after Nitish Rana, Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs and captain Axar Patel failed to make meaningful contributions. Meanwhile, Murali Kartik questioned Delhi Capitals’ decision to keep Prithvi Shaw out of the playing XI despite the team’s repeated batting failures. Kartik felt that Shaw’s aggressive approach at the top of the order could have given the side much-needed momentum during the powerplay overs. Notably, Delhi Capitals had secured Prithvi Shaw for Rs 75 lakh during the IPL 2026 auction.

"If you have Prithvi Shaw. Okay, he has been in the wilderness for the last two years. You brought him back and you picked him in the auction. You have picked him on the basis of some logic and you have not looked at him. If you pick him at the top, it opens up for you. You have got a gun opener. He is there for a reason. You are looking at everyone except for Prithvi," Kartik said on Cricbuzz.

Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, produced a commanding batting display. Finn Allen stole the show with a sensational unbeaten century. Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 33 as the duo helped KKR chase down the target comfortably in 14.2 overs.