Warner slams batters as Delhi Capitals exit play-offs race

'I think we found the right combination but we keep losing 4-5 wickets in the middle and that is something you cannot do at this level.'

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Delhi Capitals captain David Warner rued his side's poor batting approach after they were knocked out of IPL play-offs contention following a 31-run defeat to Punjab Kings, in Delhi, on Saturday.

Chasing 168 on a slow-turner, the Australia left-handed batter gave Delhi Capitals a perfect start as they reached 69 for no loss at the end of the powerplay. However, they crashed to 88 for 6 in 10.1 overs and were ultimately restricted to 136 for 8.

"The way we started and then losing six for 30, you are not going to win many games," Warner said at the post-match presentation.

"Another disappointing effort with the bat after the start we had."

DC will play their two remaining matches for pride only.

"I think we found the right combination but we keep losing 4-5 wickets in the middle and that is something you cannot do at this level."

He also rued the drop chance of Prabhsimran Singh, who got a reprieve on 68 from Rilee Rossouw.

"A few dropped chances cost us a few runs," Warner said.

"You have to play with pride, belief in yourself and play with freedom," he said, reflecting on Delhi’s approach in the upcoming games.

On a difficult pitch where none of his team-mates crossed 20, Prabhsimran showed the way in his 65-ball 103.

PBKS skipper Shikhar Dhawan was all praise for Prabhsimran.

"I rate this knock quite high; playing that sort of a knock with that high strike-rate and the shots he has played against the turn as well -- it was amazing."

Dhawan also hailed the spin duo of Harpreet Brar (4/30) and Rahul Chahar (2/16) and the pace bowling led beautifully by Nathan Ellis (2/26).

"Credit goes to the spinners and then the fast bowlers for closing it out."

The win kept PBKS's slender play-off hopes alive.

"I like how the boys have taken responsibility. I am very happy with the way they are growing. This win gives us a lot of confidence.

"We know that we have to win both matches. We have to stay calm and focussed because staying calm and being focussed works for us."

PBKS will play their remaining two matches -- against Delhi Capitals (May 17) and Rajasthan Royals (May 19) -- at Dharamsala.

• IPL 2023